May 29, 2020

THREE COLUMBIA RESIDENTS INJURED IN WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

Three Columbia residents were injured, two seriously, after an accident on Stadium Boulevard Wednesday afternoon. According to the Columbia Police Department, a vehicle driven by 22 year old Reid Browning of Columbia was westbound on Stadium Boulevard at the intersection of College Park Drive at around 4:17 p.m. Wednesday. At that time, a vehicle driven by 89 year old Billy Smith of Columbia was traveling south on College Park Drive approaching the intersection with Stadium Boulevard. As Smith’s vehicle was crossing the Stadium Boulevard intersection, Browning’s vehicle failed to stop at a red light and collided with the driver’s side of Smith’s vehicle. The collision caused Smith’s vehicle to roll onto its passenger side. Both Smith and his passenger, 87 year old Ellen Smith of Columbia; who was partially ejected from the vehicle, were transported to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of serious injuries. Browning suffered minor injuries.

PALMYRA MAN INJURED IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A northeast Missouri man was injured after striking a tree and ditch following a single-vehicle accident. That accident happened around 6:20 p.m. Wednesday night in Marion County. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Matthew Cashman, 29, of Palmyra, was on County Road 422 when he traveled off the right side of the road. That's when he struck a tree and ditch. Cashman suffered moderate injuries in the crash and was transported to the hospital for treatment. According to the online crash report, he was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

SUMNER TEEN DROWNS IN PRIVATE POND IN MARION COUNTY

A 19-year-old Missouri teen fell off his kayak and drowned Tuesday afternoon at a private pond in Marion County. According to KHQA, Jayden Richardson, of Sumner, was kayaking on a private pond located 2.5 miles west of Philadelphia on County Road 144 at 12:15 p.m. Tuesday.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Richardson died Tuesday after he fell out of his kayak and did not resurface. He was pronounced deceased by the Marion County Coroner on the scene at 1:45 p.m.

May 28, 2020

MISSOURI GOVERNOR PUSHES FORWARD MEDICAID VOTE

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson is moving up the date that voters will decide whether to expand Medicaid health care coverage in the state.
Parson on Tuesday said he's putting the ballot initiative on the Aug. 4 primary ballot instead of the Nov. 3 general election ballot.
Missouri's Medicaid program currently doesn't cover most adults without children and has one of the nation's lowest income eligibility thresholds for parents.
The ballot proposal would expand coverage to adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level, which is about $17,600 annually for an individual or $30,000 for a family of three.

MISSOURI HEALTH DIRECTOR VOWS NOT TO COMBINE COVID-19 TEST RESULTS

Missouri's health director says the state has been lumping together different coronavirus test results in a way that can be misleading.

Health department Director Randall Williams on Tuesday said the state no longer will combine virus tests and antibody tests.

Public health experts and Williams himself have said those tests should be separated.

That's because mixing them makes it difficult to understand how the virus is spreading and can give the false impression that the rate of positive test results is declining.

Williams had said the state wasn't combining the data.

He now says he wasn't aware that was happening.

COLUMBIA POLICE DETAIN TWO JUVENILES IN CONNECTION TO FIRE AT DOLLAR GENERAL

Columbia Police detained two juvenile suspects, both 16 years old, who are being held on the charge of Arson in the 1st Degree in connection to the May 11 structure fire at Dollar General, 3700 Flanders Court, at approximately 11:30 a.m.

The business was open and occupied at the time of the fire however, no injuries were reported.

The Columbia fire department fire marshal partnered with CPD detectives during the investigation. Fire investigators estimated the loss for the fire at approximately $350,000 in contents and approximately $250,000 for the structure.

The two suspects were released to the juvenile authorities.

This is an ongoing investigation. There are no further details to provide at this time.

If you saw something or know something, say something. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

May 27, 2020

MISSOURI HIGHWAY PATROL RELEASES MEMORIAL DAY CRASH INFORMATION

Six people died in traffic crashes over the 2020 Memorial Day weekend counting period of 6 p.m., Friday, May 22, through 11:59 p.m., Monday, May 25, 2020.

Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers investigated the following over the 2020 Memorial Day holiday weekend:

Traffic Statistics

Crashes -- 341

Injuries -- 112

Fatalities -- 5

DWI -- 111

Drug Arrests -- 112

Boating Statistics

Crashes -- 10

Injuries -- 7

Fatalities -- 0

Drownings -- 2

BWI -- 11

Drug Arrests -- 3

During the 2019 counting period, the Patrol investigated 296 traffic crashes, which included 127 injuries and seven of the eight fatalities. Troopers made 96 arrests for driving while intoxicated last year. Also, over the 2019 Memorial Day holiday: Marine operations troopers investigated seven boating crashes involving three injuries and two fatalities; and arrested 10 people for boating while intoxicated on the state’s rivers and lakes. No one drowned over the 2019 Memorial Day holiday.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE STABBING

Columbia Police responded to a report of a person that was stabbed at approximately 8:45 a.m. on May 25 near Highway 63 and Clark Lane.

Officers arrived and immediately located one male victim, 42, with a life-threatening injury. The victim was immediately transported to a local emergency room for advanced medical care.

During the investigation, it was learned that the victim was experiencing homelessness and was attacked while in a wooded area near the bridge of Highway 63 and Clark Lane. Officers canvassed the area searching for other victims as well as evidence. No further injuries were reported.

This is an ongoing investigation. There are no further details to provide at this time.

If you know something, say something. Columbia Police are asking for your help. Anyone with information about this incident, please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

KANSAS CITY AND ST. LOUIS LEADERS URGE PARTYGOERS AT LAKE TO QUARANTINE

Leaders in Kansas City and St. Louis are urging people who partied close together at Lake of the Ozarks over the Memorial Day weekend to self-quarantine for two weeks, amid fears that the gatherings documented in social media postings will lead to a resurgence of the coronavirus.
Big crowds were reported at swimming pools, bars and restaurants at the popular central Missouri lake that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Postings showed people without masks partying and swimming together in close proximity.
St. Louis County Executive Sam Page asked the county's health department to issue a travel advisory.

May 26, 2020

PATCHING CONTINUES FOR ROUTE CC AND MISSOURI ROUTE 161 IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Weather permitting, MoDOT crews will be doing the following patching work in Montgomery County.

Montgomery County Route CC- May 26, road will be down to one lane traffic at various locations between Trinity Church Road and Missouri Route 161 for patching operations. Work will be completed between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. that day.

Missouri Route 161 - May 26-28 and June 1-2, road will be down to one lane traffic at various locations between Missouri Route 19 and Montgomery County Route T for patching operations. Work will be completed between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. each day.

Motorists need to use caution if they will be traveling in these areas.

This work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

COLUMBIA POLICE RESPOND TO SHOTS FIRED AND GUNSHOT WOUND MONDAY MORNING

Columbia Police responded to a report of a person with a gunshot wound on Monday at approximately 2:10 a.m., in the 2700 block of Quail Drive. Officers arrived and immediately located one victim with a life-threatening gunshot wound. The victim was immediately transported to a local emergency room for advanced medical care. No further injuries were reported. This is an ongoing investigation. There are no further details to provide at this time. If you know something, say something. Columbia Police are asking for your help. Anyone with information about this incident, please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

MISSOURI HEALTH DIRECTOR WARNS RESIDENTS AFTER VIRAL VIDEO SURFACES

Missouri's health director has issued a dire warning after photos and video showed Memorial Day weekend revelers partying close together: The coronavirus is still here, and the spreading of illnesses could have "long-lasting and tragic" results.

One video on social media shows a crammed pool at Lake of the Ozarks, with people lounging and playing close together, without masks.

The lake draws people from as far away as Arkansas and Iowa.

It's especially popular with travelers from St. Louis city and county, which combined account for more than half of Missouri's confirmed cases and more than two-thirds of the 681 deaths.

FOUR MISSOURI TEENS INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT IN MONROE COUNTY

Four Missouri teens were injured following a single-vehicle crash Sunday night.

The crash happened just after 7 p.m. in Monroe County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by Chase Grimes, 18, of Fulton, was on Business 154, just east of US 24 in Paris, Missouri, when he traveled off the side of the road and overcorrected. That caused him to travel off the other side of the road where he hit a culvert. Grimes suffered minor injuries, while three other passengers inside the vehicle Eston Drews, 17, of Fulton, and Bryanna Conboy, 17, of Paris, Missouri, along with a 14-year-old boy all suffered minor injuries. All four were taken to the hospital for treatment. According to the online crash report, all four were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.

Weekend Report- May 23-24, 2020

DRIVER HURT IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A driver was hurt in an accident that occurred at 4:25pm Saturday in Montgomery County. 28 year old Cody Pardue of Bessemer, AL was eastbound on I-70 when his freightliner traveled off the right side of the roadway and down an embankment. He was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

MAN INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

A man was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Cole County. 67 year old Michael Hood of Dixon, MO was on US 54 when his van ran off the right side of the road and struck several trees. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRIDAY MORNING CRASH

A man was seriously injured in a Friday morning crash in Franklin County. The patrol says that 56 year old Michael Shannon of Pocohontas, AR was on Missouri 185 when he steered to the right to avoid a collision with an oncoming vehicle, causing his dump truck to travel off the right side of the roadway, returned to the road, overcorrected to the left, crossed the center line, ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned. He was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries.

May 22, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE REPORT OF SHOTS FIRED

Columbia Police responded to a report of shots fired Thursday, May 21, at approximately 6:50 a.m. in the 3500 block of Zinnia Drive.

Officers arrived and immediately began canvassing the area and located several shell casings indicating shots had been fired. During the investigation, officers did locate damage to a residence however, no injuries were reported.

This is an ongoing investigation. There are no further details to provide at this time.

Columbia Police are asking for your help. Anyone with information about this incident, please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

MISSOURI CHAMBER PUSHES FOR BUSINESSES PROTECTION FROM COVID-19 LAWSUITS

The Missouri Chamber of Commerce is urging Mike Parson to call a special session so lawmakers can take action to protect businesses from coronavirus-related lawsuits. In a letter to the Republican governor on Wednesday, the chamber called coronavirus liability an "emerging problem in Missouri."

The organization cites lawsuits involving those who believe they contracted the virus at a business.

The chamber says that under current state law, the lawsuits can move forward regardless of whether businesses were taking precautions aimed at limiting the spread of the coronavirus.

PALMYRA WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A northeast Missouri woman was flown to the hospital with serious injuries following a two-vehicle crash.

The accident happened around 1:20 p.m. Wednesday in Marion County.

According to the patrol a grain truck driven by Joseph Swisher, 71, of Philadelphia, Missouri was on Route M when he ran off the left side of the road.

A vehicle driven by Destiny Bevans, 33, of Palmyra, crested the hill and tried to avoid Swisher's vehicle, but that's when the two collided in the middle of the road.

Bevans was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, and suffered serious injuries.

She was taken by Air Evac to University Hospital in Columbia.

Swisher was not injured in the crash.

May 21, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE ARREST SUSPECT IN STABBING AT LOWES

At approximately 2:53 p.m. on May 19, Columbia police responded to a report of a stabbing in front of Lowe’s, located at 201-A Conley Road.

Upon arrival, officers made contact with a female victim, 43, who was transported to a local hospital by emergency medical services to treat non-life threatening injuries.

The suspect was identified as Gentara Bennett, 19, of Columbia. Officers located Bennett inside Sam’s Club, located at 101 Conley Road. At this time, the weapon used is unknown. Bennett was arrested for assault in the first degree, armed criminal action and resisting arrest. There is no known connection between the victim and the suspect.

This case is an ongoing investigation and is being handled by detectives in the Criminal Investigation Division. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

MINOR FLOODING REPORTED IN EASTERN MISSOURI

Persistent wet weather has caused rivers to rise in eastern Missouri, resulting in minor flooding along parts of the Mississippi and other rivers.
Much of the eastern part of the state has received 3 inches of rain or more over the past week.
The Mississippi River is at flood stage in the northeast Missouri towns of Louisiana and Clarksville, leaving farm fields wet and closing a few roads.
In southeast Missouri, the Mississippi River was nearly 2 feet above technical flood stage on Wednesday at Cape Girardeau, where much of the town is protected by a flood wall.
The Meramec River was flooding at Arnold.

PATROL: MAKE SAFETY A TOP PRIORITY THIS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND!

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, recognizes Memorial Day weekend is highly anticipated, especially after these last few months. A safe, fun weekend starts with planning and good decisions. Please remember to observe social distancing and other CDC guidelines, and stay home if you are ill. If your plans include driving or boating, choose to be courteous and obey all Missouri laws. Use a seat belt when you drive and wear a life jacket when you're on or near the water. Always pay attention, whether you're operating a vehicle or a vessel, and choose to be a sober driver on land and on the water.
The Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort) during the long holiday weekend. This means every available trooper will be on the road enforcing traffic laws and assisting motorists.
Motorists or boaters in need of assistance or who want to report a crime should use the Highway Patrol's Emergency Assistance number 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. For road condition reports, travelers can visit the Patrol's website at www.mshp.dps.mo.gov. Click on the Road Condition icon to view road construction areas as well as road conditions throughout the state or call 1-888-275-6636.
Over the 2019 Memorial Day holiday weekend, eight people died and 433 were injured in 1,009 traffic crashes. Last year, troopers made 96 DWI arrests. This year's counting period for the holiday weekend begins at 6 p.m., Friday, May 22, and ends at 11:59 p.m., Monday, May 25, 2020. Troopers will focus their attention on seat belt use, use of child safety seats, impaired drivers, hazardous moving violations, and speed violations.

The Memorial Day weekend is also an unofficial start to the boating season. During the 2019 Memorial Day weekend, there were seven boating crashes which included two fatalities and three injuries. No one drowned over last year’s holiday weekend. Troopers arrested 10 people for boating while intoxicated over the 2019 Memorial Day weekend.
Missouri provides a variety of opportunities for boating. Please be courteous to others on the water, wear a life jacket, and obey the law regarding safe operation of a vessel and no wake zones. Causing harm to another person or their property with an excessive boat wake may subject you to enforcement action or civil liability. Always treat other boaters and property owners as you want to be treated. Never operate a boat while you are impaired; never ride with an impaired operator.

May 20, 2020

WOMAN INJURED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Moscow Mills woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 3:50pm Tuesday in St. Charles County. 42 year old Heather Greenway was on Highway Y when she lost control of her Chevy Suburban, traveled off the right side of the roadway, she overcorrected, causing it to travel off the left side of the road and overturned. She was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles for treatment of moderate injuries.

WOMAN KILLED, MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TUESDAY NIGHT WRECK

A woman was killed and a man was seriously injured in a two-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in St. Louis County. The patrol says that 55 year old Terri Jackson of St. Louis was turning left onto Missouri 367 when her car was struck by a car driven by 25 year old Randon Ewing of St. Louis. Terri Jackson was pronounced dead at the scene while Ewing was taken to Barnes Jewish Hospital with serious injuries.

May 19, 2020

WOMAN HURT IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY WRECK

An O’Fallon woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday afternoon in Montgomery County. 64 year old Mary Egmee was eastbound on I-70 and pulling a trailer behind her truck when the trailer skidded down the roadway, struck the median wall and jack-knifed before overturning. She was transported by ambulance to Progress West Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

TEEN INJURED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A Martinsburg teen was injured in an accident that occurred at 12:35pm Monday in Audrain County. The patrol says that 19 year old Austin Stuart was on Route N when he failed to negotiate a right curve, causing his motorcycle to cross the center line, run off the left side of the road, began to slide, struck a ditch and ejected him. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

DRIVER HURT IN UNUSUAL INCIDENT

A Fulton driver was hurt in an unusual incident Monday night in Cole County. 47 year old Stephanie Easley was on Highway 50 when her vehicle was struck by a turkey. She was taken to Capitol Region Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

APPLICATION DEADLINE SET FOR FOOD, SHELTER AID FUNDING

A May 28th deadline has been set for distribution of federal emergency food and shelter program money in 10 Missouri counties. The funding comes from the Department of Homeland Security through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It covers Lewis, Lincoln, Macon, Marion, Monroe, Montgomery, Pike, Ralls, Shelby and Warren counties. A board will determine how funding will be distributed among emergency food and shelter programs run by local agencies, which must meet eligibility guidelines. Agencies that wish to apply should call Diana Hendrix at 573-735-2131.

May 18, 2020

PATCHING OPERATIONS PLANNED FOR ROUTES IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Weather permitting, MoDOT crews will be doing the following work in Montgomery County.

Montgomery County Route CC- May 19-21, road will be down to one lane traffic at various locations between Missouri Route 161 and Montgomery County Route A for patching operations. Work will be completed between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. each day.

Missouri Route 161 - May 26-28, road will be down to one lane traffic at various locations between Missouri Route 19 and Montgomery County Route TT for patching operations. Work will be completed between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. each day.

Motorists need to use caution if they will be traveling in these areas.

This work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOTS FIRED IN NORTH COLUMBIA

In the early hours of Saturday, May 16, Columbia police responded to two incidents of shots fired in a residential neighborhood in North Columbia.

The first incident occurred at approximately 3:50 a.m. in the 1400 block of Bodie Drive. Upon arrival, officers located a residence with several bullet holes. One intact bullet was recovered from the door. There were no reported injuries. Surveillance video from a neighbor showed shots being fired from a white or silver SUV which fled the scene in an unknown direction of travel.

While officers were investigating the call on Bodie Drive, they heard approximately 13 shots being fired in the south, near the area of Derby Ridge Drive and Smiley Lane. When officers arrived there were several damaged vehicles and houses located in the 4400 block of Derby Ridge Drive. Bullets were recovered from a car and the siding of a residence.

There were no reported injuries. No shell casings were located at or near either scene.

These are active and ongoing investigations and there are no further details to provide.

If anyone has any additional information, they are encouraged to contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or call CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS to remain anonymous.

KIRKSVILLE WOMAN ARRESTED FOR MURDER AFTER NEWBORN DROWNS AT SMITHFIELD PLANT

Late Friday afternoon, the Missouri State HIghway Patrol, Kirksville Police Department and the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office arrested a northeast Missouri woman for murder.

Makuya Stephanie Kambamba, 28, of Kirksville, is charged with first-degree murder and second-degree murder in the May 6, 2020, death of her newborn baby boy.

According to court documents filed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crime happened in a restroom at the Smithfield Foods plant in Milan, Missouri, where she works.

Investigators said Kambamba knowingly allowed her boy to drown in a toilet where she had given birth.

Court papers state the suspect told officers that after birthing the child, she saw the baby moving as he was face down in the toilet water.

Kambamba said she then sat back down on the toilet due to having more labor contractions and never again checked on the boy until approximately 30 minutes later when a Smithfield nurse entered the restroom.

An autopsy on the newborn revealed evidence consistent with a drowning victim.

Kambamba also faces charges of first-degree involuntary manslaughter, second-degree involuntary manslaughter and abuse or neglect of a child resulting in death.

She was processed Friday evening at the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office in Milan before being transported to the Daviess/DeKalb Regional Jail in Pattonsburg, Missouri.

Kambamba is being held without bond.

Weekend Report- May 16-17, 2020

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A Jefferson City man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 2am Sunday morning in Cole County. The patrol says that 20 year old Rylan Sapp was on US 50 when he reportedly swerved to avoid a deer in the roadway, causing his truck to travel off the right side of the road, down an embankment and impacted a drainage ditch. He was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Jefferson City with serious injuries.

COLUMBIA DRIVER INJURED IN AUDRAIN COUNTY WRECK

A Columbia driver was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Audrain County. 49 year old Richard Bradley was on MO 22 when his car ran off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to travel off the left side of the road and overturned several times. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

TEEN HURT IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A teen was hurt in an early Saturday morning crash in Osage County. 19 year old Haleigh Kelley of Linn, MO was on US 63 when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a culvert and overturned. She sustained minor injuries and was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital for treatment.

May 15, 2020

NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMAN ARRESTED AFTER ATTEMPTED KIDNAPPING IN MONROE COUNTY

A Seabrook, New Hampshire woman was arrested for an attempted child kidnapping in Monroe County. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 20 year old Erica Johnson of Seabrook, New Hampshire was arrested on May 11^th by New Hampshire State Police in connection with the attempted kidnapping of an 11 year old Monroe County resident. Johnson had been communicating with the child for approximately four months using various gaming platforms and social media. Johnson traveled from Boston, Massachusetts to Monroe County on April 25^th. It was determined by investigators that Johnson’s trip was for the purpose of coercing the juvenile to return to New Hampshire with her. She was not successful in leaving Monroe County with the child and returned to New Hampshire where she was arrested. She is currently awaiting extradition to Missouri with a cash only bond of $50,000.

MISSOURI CASINOS TO REOPEN JUNE 1^ST, SOME MU EMPLOYEES CAN BEGIN TO RETURN TO CAMPUS

Missouri casinos can reopen June 1, ending a nearly 2 1/2-month shutdown caused by the coronavirus.
All 13 casinos in the state were closed March 17 as part of the effort to limit the spread of COVID-19.
The Missouri Gaming Commission on Wednesday extended the closure through May 31, meaning the gambling centers can reopen the following day.
The University of Missouri System announced that some employees can return to campus starting May 20.
The university is using a phased-in approach that allows some faculty, staff and administrators to return but under guidelines on social distancing and hygiene.

SCHUYLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT CONFIRMS FIRST COVID-19 CASE

The Schuyler County Health Department has confirmed the first positive case of COVID-19 in Schuyler County. The case is community related, meaning the person likely contracted it somewhere within the county where the person lives or in surrounding counties, which in Schuyler County's case, could even mean across the Iowa/Missouri state border.

The patient is being asked to self-isolate to decrease the risk of exposing others.

Administrator Kathryn Magers told KTVO the infected person is between the ages of 60 and 65.

We have learned the patient is a man. The health department won't release his hometown so that won't be an identifying factor.

Schuyler County Health Department staff is working in coordination with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) to determine any close contacts of that individual who were possibly exposed. If there were any, health officials will guide these individuals and monitor them closely for the development of symptoms.

May 14, 2020

COVID-19 CASES TOP 10,000 IN MISSOURI, DEATHS RISE ABOVE 500

Both the number of confirmed cases and deaths from the coronavirus in Missouri reached somber milestones Tuesday: Cases topped 10,000 and the number of deaths exceeded 500. The state health department reported 88 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, bringing the total since the pandemic began to 10,006. Thirty-six new deaths were reported. Since March, 524 people in Missouri have died from the virus. St. Louis continues to be the hardest-hit region. State data shows that 53.4% of confirmed cases, and 70.4% of deaths, have occurred in St. Louis city and county combined.

MISSOURI REPORTS 46 NEW CASES OF CWD IN DEER HARVEST

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has finished its chronic wasting disease (CWD) monitoring and testing efforts for the 2019-2020 deer season. After the MDC completed those tests, 46 new cases of CWD were found across the state of Missouri. Those new cases bring the total number of cases reported in Missouri to 162 since 2012. Of the 46 confirmed cases, 19 were in northeast Missouri.

Three were in Adair County, eight in Linn County and eight in Macon County.

25 of the 46 new cases were from the 29,000 tissue samples collected this past season. The remaining 21 cases were from the post-season targeted culling efforts in January, February and early March in areas CWD was previously found.

The MDC would like to thank the 1,390 participating landowners who helped MDC staffers remove 2,400 deer from those areas.

Since the first cases of CWD were confirmed in 2012, the MDC has tested more than 137,000 deer.

BE ALERT FOR SEASONAL STRIPING OPERATIONS

Road striping operations have begun throughout the state and the Missouri Department of Transportation is urging motorists to use caution when encountering work crews.

MoDOT is currently striping two-lane roadways and will be working on freeways and expressways in June, July and August. Drivers will see slow-moving caravans of trucks refreshing the lines on the roadway.

Striping crews must travel slowly as they paint roadway markings to ensure a good quality line. The striping trains move between 8 and 12 mph when workers are painting white and yellow lines on the highways. The trucks have flashing lights, boards with flashing arrows and signs that say, “SLOW VEHICLES” and “WET PAINT.”

Crisp, easy-to-see striping is a significant safety feature on roadways. MoDOT uses paint embedded with glass beads. The beads reflect headlight beams back in the direction of the motorist to make the stripes more visible, especially at night, wet road or low light conditions.

Most of the striping is done during daylight hours. However, it is not uncommon to see crews working at night on interstate highways and other high-volume divided highways. Rain or very damp conditions will cancel or cut short any striping work that is scheduled.

May 13, 2020

MISSOURI GOVERNOR ENCOURAGED BY RETURN TO SOME NORMALCY

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson said Monday that he's encouraged that residents are returning to some semblance of normal life after weeks of shelter-in-place orders made necessary by the coronavirus. Parson spent the weekend back home in southwestern Missouri and said it was good "to do some of the normal duties in life."
He helped his grandson shop for his first car and took his wife to a restaurant. Missouri confirmed 74 new cases of the coronavirus on Monday. Parson noted that was the lowest one-day total since mid-March. Deaths rose by four to 488.

PROPOSED BILL TO EXTEND ACCESS TO RAPE KITS IN MISSOURI

All Missouri hospitals would be required to offer rape kits under a bill heading to the governor's desk. Currently, not every hospital can perform rape kits to gather evidence of sexual assault. But a bill that would mandate access to rape kits at all licensed hospitals received final approval in the state House on Tuesday. Now it's up to Republican Gov. Mike Parson to sign it into law. The measure would give hospitals access to virtual and in-person training on how to perform rape kits. By 2023, all hospitals would be required to provide rape kits.

WANTED COLUMBIA MAN ARRESTED IN NEW YORK

On May 11, at approximately 7:45 a.m. EDT, troopers from the New York State Police arrested Keith Edwin Brodie, a suspect on Missouri’s most wanted list, on outstanding warrants in Missouri and New Jersey. Brodie, 41, was located in Syracuse, NY and will be held on no bond in the Onondaga County Justice Center in New York with possible full extradition.

In Missouri, Brodie has warrants for burglary in the first degree, assault in the second degree, unlawful use of a weapon and resisting arrest. Brodie is wanted for a violation of a court order and stalking under the State of New Jersey’s criminal code. As a fugitive from justice, Brodie may be arrested and charged with the crimes that come from the out-of-state jurisdictions in the state of New York.

On Feb. 20, Brodie was a suspect in an officer-involved shooting that took place on Nebo Cemetery Road and Route UU in Columbia. The same day, Brodie hit a CPD officer with his truck as he fled the scene in the 3700 block of Rollins Road.

We appreciate our law enforcement partners in Syracuse for their assistance on this case.

This is an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

May 12, 2020

MEXICO WOMAN, TODDLER AND BABY AMONG THOSE KILLED IN SUBURBAN ST. LOUIS ACCIDENT

Authorities say a baby, toddler and three others have been killed in a suburban St. Louis crash. The patrol says Travon Nelson, 22, of Florissant, was behind the wheel of a sport utility vehicle when he went off the side of a road in Jennings and overcorrected Saturday afternoon. He then drove into oncoming traffic and struck a cargo van before overturning. The crash killed Nelson, Kristy Monroe, 22, of Mexico, Missouri, along with the baby, toddler and a 16-year-old. The names of the three juveniles weren't immediately released. The driver of the van was rushed to a hospital in serious condition.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Friday, May 8 at approximately 8:06PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the intersection of Wade and Hendricks in reference to a crash involving a bicycle. Responding personnel found that Earl Smith, age 69 of Mexico, was driving his 2006 Pontiac northbound on Wade Street through the intersection, when he struck a bicycle being ridden by a 12 year-old male. The bicycle had almost cleared the intersection when the collision occurred, and the bicycle was struck on the rear tire causing it to crash. The juvenile was later taken to SSM Health / St. Mary’s Hospital-Audrain by a parent. His injuries were treated and he was released.

COLUMBIA FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDS TO STRUCTURE FIRE

The Columbia Fire Department was dispatched to a commercial structure fire at 3700 Flanders Court, Dollar General, on May 11 at 11:33am. While en route units reported smoke was visible from Ballenger Road.
The first unit arrived on the scene less than four minutes later and reported moderate smoke coming from a single story commercial structure. Evacuation was in progress. An additional fire company was requested. Fire crews performed an aggressive fire attack using pre-connected hose lines that were advanced into the structure from two separate entrances. They encountered significant heat and smoke upon entry. The fire was brought under control in approximately thirty minutes.
The Fire Marshal was dispatched to perform a fire origin and cause investigation. Additional details will be released as they become available.
Ten units from the Columbia Fire Department responded to this call. There were no reported injuries.

May 11, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE ARREST WANTED MAN AFTER HE BARRICADED HIMSELF IN A RESIDENCE

Columbia Police arrested Montreil Donell Johnson, 34, of Columbia, after officers observed Johnson in the area of N. Willowbrook Road and E. Willowbrook Road at approximately 9:40 p.m. on May 9. Officers were aware there was probable cause to arrest Johnson for Domestic Assault in the 2nd Degree from an incident on April 23 (Case number 2020-003334). When approached by officers, Johnson fled into a residence in the 2900 block of N. Willowbrook Road.

Officers established a secure perimeter around the residence and attempted to get Johnson to voluntarily come out, however he refused to exit the residence. The Columbia Police Crisis Negotiation Team, Boone County Sheriff’s Department K-9 unit, and the Columbia Police SWAT team assisted patrol officers at the scene.

After several attempts were made to get Johnson to voluntarily exit, the SWAT team made entry to the residence and located him at 3:55 a.m., unconscious and hiding in a clothes dryer. Johnson was transported by EMS to a local hospital for medical evaluation. He was later released and booked into custody at the Boone County Jail.

Johnson was arrested for Domestic Assault in the 2nd Degree for the previous incident with an additional charge of obstructing government operations for barricading himself in the residence.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

CHIP SEALING ADDS LIFE TO MISSOURI ROADS, SAVES TAXPAYER DOLLARS

Chip seal operations have begun throughout the state, and the Missouri Department of Transportation wants you to know what this work entails and why this technique is used to preserve highways throughout the state.

MoDOT has prepared a series of videos titled “All About Chip Seals” to help drivers better understand this maintenance technique. The videos can be found on MoDOT Central District’s YouTube channel here.

A chip seal operation entails spraying a heated film of asphalt liquid on the road, followed by placing fine rocks or chips on top. The chips are then compacted to make them adhere to the roadway. Finally, the excess loose chips are swept from the surface, leaving an improved roadway that will hold up longer than it would have without the treatment.

Chip seals are about one-third the cost of a conventional asphalt overlay, averaging $15,000 per mile as compared to an estimated $55,000 per mile for an asphalt overlay. Chip seals keep damaging water from penetrating paved surfaces and extend the life of the pavement for an additional five to seven years. Chip sealing also seals cracks and improves roadway traction.

A surface may be chip sealed several times, providing the road remains structurally sound. The chip seal process is typically used on roads carrying lower traffic volumes which make up more than half of MoDOT’s roadway network.

Motorists should be aware that flaggers and pilot vehicles are frequently present at chip seal operations, and vehicles may be required to come to a complete stop. Traffic delays are possible, so travelers should consider alternate routes, if available.

May 8, 2020

BRIDGE AND PATCHING WORK CONTINUES FOR ROUTES IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Weather permitting, MoDOT crews will be doing the following work in Montgomery County.

Missouri Route 19 south - May 11-13, crews will have the road down to one lane traffic at the bridge over Interstate 70 at New Florence while bridge maintenance is underway. The work will take place during the overnight hours between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. each day (beginning at 7:00 p.m. on May 11 and ending 7:00 a.m. on May 13) reopening during daytime hours. There will be a 10 ft. width restriction in place while the work is completed.

Missouri Route 19 north - May 13-15, crews will have the road down to one lane traffic at the bridge over Interstate 70 at New Florence while bridge maintenance is underway. The work will take place during the overnight hours between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. each day (beginning at 7:00 p.m. on May 13 and ending at 7:00 a.m. on May 15) reopening during daytime hours. There will be a 10 ft. width restriction in place while the work is completed.

Montgomery County Route DD - May 11, road will be down to one lane at various locations between Montgomery County Route E and Montgomery County Route A (in Truxton) for patching operations. Work will be completed between 8:00 a.m and 3:00 p.m. that day.

This work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

MISSOURI AIR NATIONAL GUARD PLANS FLYOVERS FOR ESSENTIAL WORKERS IN 6 CITIES FRIDAY

The Missouri Air National Guard's 131st Bomb Wing will be performing flyovers of six Missouri communities to honor medical and healthcare professionals, essential employees and volunteers in the fight against COVID-19.

These flyovers will take place during the afternoon and evening of May 8.

The flyovers are a part of an Air Force-wide effort to honor first responders as they battle the COVID-19 pandemic, said Col. Ken Eaves, commander of the 131st Bomb Wing.

“We greatly appreciate the selfless service and sacrifices of our medical professionals and other COVID-19 essential workers,” Eaves said. “As Guardsmen, we’ve been honored to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with these incredible professionals. Currently, hundreds of Missouri Air and Army National Guardsmen are mobilized to support these efforts.”

The planned route will pass over Camdenton, Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, Columbia, Jefferson City and Springfield, and will include a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber assigned to the 509th/131st Bomb Wings.

During the flyovers, all residents are encouraged to follow strict social distancing guidelines and refrain from gathering in large groups.

The flyovers are part of the Air Force’s Operation American Resolve, honoring the heroism of medical professionals, healthcare workers and first responders working tirelessly to combat the pandemic. Dozens of similar missions have been conducted across the country in recent weeks, including a flight made up of B-2s and A-10s flown by Airmen from the 509th Bomb Wing and 442nd Fighter Wing, respectively, over Kansas City on April 28.

The U.S. Air Force performs almost 1,000 flyovers each year, to include air shows, national-level sporting events, and any event in support of a patriotic holiday. Flyovers are fully functional training missions, designed to maintain the lethality and readiness of Air Force pilots and maintainers. They are conducted at no additional cost to taxpayers and are incorporated into existing flying schedules.

Based at Whiteman Air Force Base and Jefferson Barracks, the 131st Bomb Wing is the only National Guard wing to fly the B-2 Spirit through as a classic unit association with the active duty Bomb Wing.

Tentative schedule:

4:14 p.m. - Camdenton

4:50 p.m. - Cape Girardeau

5:12 p.m. - St. Louis

5:43 p.m. - Columbia

6:00 p.m. - Jefferson City

6:22 p.m. - Springfield

NOTE: Times are subject to change

STATE OF MISSOURI TO SEEK DEATH PENALTY FOR MAN SUSPECTED OF KILLING WISCONSIN BROTHERS

The state of Missouri plans to seek the death penalty for a man suspected of killing two brothers from Wisconsin.

Attorney Patrick Berrigan told the St. Joseph News-Press Wednesday that he has been appointed to defend Garland Joseph Nelson in the death penalty case.

Nelson is accused of killing Nick and Justin Diemel, of Shawano County, Wisconsin, in July.

Nelson pleaded not guilty Monday.

Circuit Judge Kevin Walden has been appointed to hear the case.

Court records report the brothers disappeared after they went to Nelson's northwestern Missouri farm to collect a $250,000 debt.

Their remains were found in Missouri and Nebraska

May 7, 2020

FEDERAL JUDGE THROWS OUT LAWSUIT AGAINST SMITHFIELD FOODS

A federal judge has thrown out a lawsuit filed on behalf of workers at the Smithfield Foods Meatpacking plant in Milan.

In a 24-page order Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Greg Kays declined to hear the case, which alleged that working conditions at the plant have left its workers dangerously exposed to the coronavirus.

He ruled it's a matter for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA) to consider.

The suit, which was filed nearly two weeks ago by a worker at the plant and a small nonprofit group that advocates for plant workers, alleged that Smithfield Foods had not taken adequate steps to prevent transmission of the coronavirus.

In dismissing the lawsuit, Kays said OHSA was in a better position to determine whether the plant was complying with the guidance. And, he said, deferring to the agency would “ensure uniform national enforcement” of the guidance.

Kays also said he would not have granted the relief requested by the plaintiffs because they had not demonstrated “irreparable harm.”

The plaintiffs wanted Kays to issue an injunction to force Smithfield to provide workers with masks, ensure social distancing and take other measures to protect their safety.

SENATE TRYING TO KEEP COLLEGES OUT OF BUDGET CUTS

Missouri senators are trying to save colleges and universities from budget cuts after the coronavirus paralyzed the state's economy.

Senators on Tuesday voted against a 10% cut in state funding to public colleges and universities.

The House proposed the cut to balance next year's budget, which begins July 1.

Senators are hoping that Congress will send Missouri more federal aid so the state can avoid those cuts to higher education.

Legislative leaders agreed to cut $700 million from the governor's original budget proposal because of the hit coronavirus has taken on the economy.

One senator says that's not enough.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOTS FIRED

Columbia Police officers responded to the 1600 block of Hanover Boulevard to multiple reports of shots fired on Tuesday, May 5, at approximately 3:05 p.m.

Officers arrived and immediately began canvassing the area and located several shell casings indicating shots had been fired. During the investigation, officers did not locate any damage to property and no injuries were reported.

This is an ongoing investigation. There are no further details to provide at this time.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

May 6, 2020

DRIVERS INJURED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two drivers were injured in an accident that occurred at around 6:25pm Tuesday in St. Charles County. The patrol says that 25 year old Shawn Meyer of Florissant was on Highway 370 and following too closely to a car driven by 40 year old Joseph Ratkewicz of St. Charles when his truck struck the car in the rear. Both were transported by ambulance to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles for treatment of moderate injuries.

WOMAN INJURED IN TUESDAY NIGHT WRECK

A Louisiana woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Pike County. 37 year old Bridgett Hurshman was on Pike County Road 122 when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a mailbox, an embankment and a tree. She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Barnes Jewish Hospital for treatment.

TWO HURT IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

Two people were hurt in a Tuesday afternoon crash in Lincoln County. 65 year old Nancy Schauer of Troy failed to yield to oncoming traffic while making a left turn onto Highway 47 from Ridge Road when her car was struck in the side by a van driven by Gordon Willis of Old Monroe. Both drivers were taken to Mercy Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

May 5, 2020

STATE BEGINS TO REOPEN, BUT WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

On Monday, May 4, Missouri starts with phase one of its "Show Me Strong" reopening plan, after covid-19 closed many businesses, stopped church services, and changed the manner of everyday life statewide.

This is not yet a return to normal. It's a first step in a slow crawl toward whatever the post-covid-19 world has in store.

In an April 27 statement from the governor’s office, Parson writes that on May 4: “citizens may begin returning to economic and social activities but must adhere to social distancing requirements, including maintaining six feet of space between individuals in most cases."

Despite increasing numbers of covid-19 cases and deaths in the state, Parson has said the easing of some restrictions is a part of a "data-driven" approach. The plan is said to take into account a perceived need for different policies for different communities, based on whether they're a "hot-spot" for the virus or not. Parson says that phase one of the Plan comes after increased testing capacity in the Show-Me State, which has made that distinction clearer.

Stay-home order expires

The Stay Home order issued April 3 is now lifted in Missouri.

For the time being, Missouri's communities are allowed to have stricter rules than the state's, if they so choose, under authority granted by state government at the onset of the pandemic.

Many non-essential businesses can reopen

Small and large businesses, as well as manufacturers, barbershops and salons, gyms and restaurants will begin to reopen May 4.

Dependent on where you work, if you're returning to the job site Monday, you may be required to wear personal protective equipment, especially if your job is impossible to do while social distancing.

On May 2, the Governor gave guidance to businesses like hair and nail salons and barbershops, who need to be close to the people they're doing business with, as a matter of fact.

"The social distancing requirements do not apply to individuals performing job duties that require contact with other people closer than six feet (6’)," the Office writes.

Under the Plan's first phase, church services, and even concerts can resume activity, with no limits as to how many can attend, as long as state and federal guidelines for social distancing are followed.

"There are currently no limitations on social gatherings as long as necessary precautions are taken," according to a release from Parson's office.

For comparison's sake, in Iowa, the state’s limit on social gatherings of more than 10 people remains in place.

You can expect thinner crowds inside retail stores, or even lines that go outside, as stores with 10,000 square feet or greater have been instructed to open at 25% capacity or less, businesses larger than 10,000 square feet -- 10% occupancy.

Dine-in is allowed once again

Dining rooms in restaurants are now allowed to reopen, too.

Expect for tables at restaurants to be spaced out from one another, and for new protective measures being taken to minimize contact, if the restaurant decides to go the route of reopening table seating.

You may find that restaurants can fit fewer tables in their facilities under these new guidelines than they could beforehand. This could lead to longer wait times, or an inability to be seated in some instances, if the restaurant is really busy.

Government services back on

Motor vehicle and drivers’ licenses offices, as well as vehicle inspections, and access to vital records will now be accessible again, but social distancing may affect availability of these services.

Many aspects of government are reopening, but the extent to which things are "back on" as normal is more fluid.

For example, the Kirksville City Council is convening for a study session Monday evening. Before covid-19, a public meeting would be open for the general public to attend.

The Council has opted to close the study session to the public, and will be streaming it online.

May 4, 2020

BRIDGE AND PATCHING WORK PLANNED FOR SEVERAL ROUTES IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Weather permitting, MoDOT crews will be doing the following work in Montgomery County.

Missouri Route 19 south - May 3-7 and May 11-13, crews will have the road down to one lane traffic at the bridge over Interstate 70 at New Florence while bridge maintenance is underway. The work will take place during the overnight hours between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. each day (beginning at 7:00 p.m. on May 3 and ending at 7:00 a.m. on May 7, then beginning again at 7:00 p.m. on May 11 and ending 7:00 a.m. on May 13)) reopening during daytime hours. There will be a 10 ft. width restriction in place while the work is completed.

Montgomery County Route DD - May 4-5, road will be down to one lane at various locations between Montgomery County Route E and Montgomery County Route A for patching operations. Work will be completed between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. each day.

Montgomery County Route V - May 6, road will be down to one lane at various locations between Route E and Missouri Route 161 for patching operations. Work will be completed between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Montgomery County Route E- May 14, road will be down to one lane at various locations between Route DD and Route V for patching operations. Work will be completed between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

This work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

TRAIN DERAILS IN KNOX COUNTY

Cleanup crews are on the scene of a freight train derailment in northeast Missouri.
BNSF Railways spokesman Andy Williams told KTVO the incident happened at 6:55 a.m. Sunday in Knox County.
A resident who lives near the site said the derailment is approximately five miles northwest of Edina off of Knox County Route P.
Williams said 11 of 91 cars of the westbound train jumped the tracks.
He would not release what was in the overturned train cars, but he did say it is not hazardous materials.
No injuries were reported.
Crews from St. Louis were brought to the scene to clean up the mess.
Smith said there are two rail lines in the area where the derailment happened, so train traffic was not interrupted by the derailment.
A cause is still unclear at this time.

Weekend Report- May 2-3, 2020

MAN INJURED IN AUDRAIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Mexico man was injured in an accident that occurred at 5pm Saturday in Audrain County. The patrol says that 46 year old Gary Cheney was riding his ATV on County Road 901 when it traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned, ejecting him from the ATV. He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

TROY WOMAN HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A Troy woman was hurt in a Saturday morning crash in Gasconade County. 71 year old Alice Tesi was on MO 28 when she attempted to slow for another motorist slowing ahead, drove off the left side of the road, lost control and struck an embankment, before being ejected from her vehicle. She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.

DRIVER INJURED IN FRIDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Columbia driver was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Friday afternoon in Boone County. 53 year old Donald Watkins was on Route N when his car crossed the center line and ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

May 1, 2020

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE PLANNED DURING OVERNIGHT HOURS FOR MISSOURI ROUTE 19 IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Weather permitting, May 3-7, MoDOT crews will have one lane traffic on Missouri Route 19 south at the bridge over Interstate 70 at New Florence while bridge maintenance is underway. The work will take place during the overnight hours between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. each day (beginning at 7:00 p.m. on May 3 and ending at 7:00 a.m. on May 7) reopening during daytime hours. There will be a 10 ft. width restriction in place while the work is completed. This work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

COLUMBIA AND BOONE COUNTY OFFICIALS ANNOUNCE GRADUAL REOPENING ORDER

Stephanie Browning, director of Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) has issued Order No. 2020-05. This order includes a framework for most businesses in Boone County to reopen with limitations on occupancy. This order will be effective at 12 a.m. on Monday, May 4, 2020, and represents a careful, gradual and phased approach to reopening Columbia and Boone County.

"It is important that we maintain low-levels of transmission as we have learned that the public health and socioeconomic impacts of the virus are significant and disproportionately impact the vulnerable. For that to happen, we all have to continue modifying our behaviors and every resident has a key role in facilitating this. Thanks to the community's hard work and sacrifice, COVID-19 cases in Boone County have begun to level off and local health care systems have been able to maintain capacity without resorting to crisis levels of care," Browning said.

Highlights:

Individuals at high risk should continue to stay at home and not interact with others except for vital activities.
Those working from home should remain working from home to the greatest extent possible.
Most businesses will be able to reopen with capacity limits and maintain social distancing requirements.
For smaller locations (less than 10,000 square feet), they must maintain 25% or less of the authorized occupancy.
For larger locations (10,000 square feet or greater), they must maintain 10% or less of the authorized occupancy.
Facilities that offer personal care services, such as hair and nail salons, massage services and others, will have more restrictive capacity limits, as it is not possible to social distance during those services. Refer to the order for more information.
Large venues, movie theaters, bars, playgrounds, hot tubs and spray grounds will continue to be closed. Contact sports will also be prohibited during this time.
Mass gatherings of more than 10 people are not permitted. Social distancing should continue to be practiced at all times when around others not in the same household.

The contact investigation team at PHHS is working closely with local health care systems and testing laboratories to track new cases of the virus. Should there be any indication that the progress that has been made thus far is jeopardized, the PHHS director may reinstate restrictions based on the epidemiological conditions at that time.
Businesses should refer to the business guidance document provided by PHHS for more information on how to safely operate during this time. If you are a business with questions about operating requirements, please emailbusinessguidance@CoMo.gov. In addition to business guidance, PHHS will be launching an online, voluntary training for businesses to certify that they are using best safety practices during COVID-19. More information will be available soon.

SMITHFIELD FOODS ASKS FEDERAL JUDGE FOR MORE TIME TO MEET SAFETY STANDARDS

The world's largest pork producer has told a judge in Missouri that it's working as quickly as it can to comply with federal guidelines that seek to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

But Smithfield Foods says it needs some flexibility in an industry where people typically work side by side.

The comments from a lawyer for Smithfield Foods came as a judge weighed whether to issue an injunction requiring the company's Milan plant to abide by federal guidelines

KTVO reached out to one of the attorneys for the group filing the lawsuit against Smithfield, the Rural Community Worker's Alliance.

David Muraskin told KTVO by email that Smithfield has 24 hours to file additional information with the judge.
The RWCA will then have 24 hours to respond.

Muraskin says that Judge Greg Kays has then promised to rule expeditiously thereafter.

The RCWA lawsuit isn't asking for monetary damages, just that Smithfield take actions to protect the health of workers.

April 30, 2020

MISSOURI GOVERNOR PRESENTS DATA BACKING UP REOPENING DECISION

On Monday, Governor Mike Parson gave the green light for all Missouri businesses to reopen on Monday, May 4. Parson said that decision was based on recent data collected in the Show-Me State.

Health officials continue to count the number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients and the number of people under investigation.

Parson said on April 7, the state hit peak hospitalization with 1,242 cases.

Since that time, the total number of hospitalizations has decreased in every region of the state, with the exception of the St. Louis area.

The Kansas City region went from 411 hospitalizations to 232 (41% reduction)
The Central Region went from 40 hospitalizations to 25 (38% reduction)
The Northwest Region went from 17 hospitalizations to 10 (41% reduction)
The Northeast Region went from 6 hospitalizations to 2 (67% reduction)
The Southwest Region went from 73 hospitalizations to 27 (63% reduction)
The Southeast Region went from 56 to 31 hospitalizations (45% reduction)
St. Louis region went from 639 hospitalizations to 692 (8% increase)

In addition, Parson said the hospitals in the state also have a significant amount of medical equipment.

Based on those numbers, business sectors across Missouri are looking forward to reopening in the coming days.

Greg Hunsucker, board president of the Missouri Restaurant Association said employees are ready and willing to get back to work, all while taking the proper precautions.

While Parson said all Missouri businesses have an opportunity to reopen, local governments have the authority to impose further rules and restrictions.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Wednesday at approximately 12:57AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department attempted to stop a vehicle in the 400 block of Robinson for several traffic violations. The vehicle drove through some yards and officers located it in a nearby driveway. Officers spoke with Blake E Swisher, age 26 of Monett, Missouri. Swisher denied being in the vehicle and while speaking with officers, he ran. Officers chased him for a little over a block before catching him in the 700 block of N Olive.

It was determined Swisher had four outstanding arrest warrants: three from Audrain County and one from Warren County. He was transported to the Audrain County Jail for the warrants and for the additional charge of Resisting Arrest. During the foot pursuit, Swisher damaged a fence when trying to jump over it. Swisher and two MPSD officers received minor injuries from falls at various times during the chase.

LANE CLOSURE SCHEDULED FOR BUSINESS LOOP 70 WEST IN COLUMBIA

Beginning Monday, May 4, at 7 a.m., JF Construction, contractor for Ameren Missouri, plans to install a new gas main along the north side of Business Loop 70 West, weather permitting. This will result in a lane restriction of the westbound lane of Business Loop 70 West between Schwabe Lane and Cosmos Place daily between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Two-way traffic will be maintained. The work associated with the lane restriction is scheduled to be completed by Friday, May 29, at 5 p.m., weather permitting. Motorists, pedestrians and non-motorized transportation users are urged to exercise extreme caution when in the work zone.

April 29, 2020

MISSOURI HOUSE BUDGET CHAIR PROPOSES CUTS TO SPENDING PLAN

A top Missouri lawmaker is proposing a near $700 million cut to the current spending plan. Republican House Budget Committee Chairman Cody Smith on Monday moved to make the cuts to the governor's original $30 billion spending plan.
Republican Gov. Mike Parson drafted his budget recommendations before the coronavirus started wreaking havoc on the state's economy.
Lawmakers have been off work for weeks over concerns about spreading the virus.
But they came back to try to pass a tightened budget before their May 8 deadline.
The full House still needs to approve Smith's proposal before the budget can head to the Senate.

COLUMBIA POLICE IDENTIFY REMAINS FOUND EARLIER THIS MONTH

The Columbia Police Department has identified the human remains found on April 14 as Timothy Alan Chrouser, 47, of Columbia. Chrouser was identified through medical records. Next of kin has been notified.

Chrouser was reported missing on Sept. 2, 2019, as he had not been seen for approximately a week. Officers were able to check several of the businesses and areas that he was known to visit but was unable to locate him or anyone that had seen him recently.

On April 14, Columbia Police responded to an area near I-70 Drive NW and Stadium Boulevard after an individual reported finding possible human remains.

The cause of death is still not determined. This is an ongoing investigation and there are no further details to provide at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS to remain anonymous.

WELLSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL RECOGNIZED IN SAFE DRIVING CAMPAIGN FOR HIGH SEAT BELT USAGE

Wellsville High School is being awarded a $500 grant from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for their educational efforts in the It Only Takes One Campaign. Wellsville was one of three schools selected in the region to receive this award. This money will be used to further highway safety educational efforts in the school. They also will receive a gold banner for achieving 100% seat belt usage! Wellsville was one of two northeast Missouri schools to receive banner honors in the competition.

It Only Takes One is a statewide campaign among high school students that stresses the importance of making good decisions while on the road. One drink, one text, one distraction could end it all. But one click (of the seatbelt) could save your life. It runs from September to March.

The Missouri teen seat belt usage rate statewide is 74%. Educating our young drivers on responsible driving habits doesn't end with the competition. Please continue to keep reminding them about the importance of wearing their seat belt every time they are in a vehicle and to NOT text and drive.

April 28, 2020

MISSOURI GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES FIRST PHASE OF REOPENING

Monday, Governor Mike Parson announced the first phase of the "Show Me Strong Recovery" Plan, which outlines how Missouri will gradually begin to reopen economic and social activity on Monday, May 4.

During phase one of the plan, citizens may begin returning to economic and social activities, but must adhere to social distancing requirements, including maintaining 6 feet of space between individuals in most cases. There are currently no limitations on social gatherings as long as necessary precautions are taken and 6 feet of distance can be maintained between individuals and/or families.

In addition, Parson says all businesses can be open provided that the social distancing guidelines set forth in the new health order are followed. Some businesses will be required to take additional precautions to protect employees and the public, such as occupancy limits at retail locations

Parson says the Show Me Strong Recovery Plan rests on four essential pillars, intended to protect those most at risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Expand testing capacity and volume in the state

Expand reserves of personal protective equipment, or PPE, by opening public and private supply chains
Continue to monitor and if necessary, expand hospital and health care system capacity, including isolation and alternate care facilities for those that cannot self-quarantine at home
Improve ability to predict potential outbreaks using Missouri's public health data

As Parson has said before, this will be a deliberate and data-driven process that allows for flexibility based on changing situations.

The governor adds that some communities may be able to reopen at a faster rate than others. Local officials will have the authority to put further rules, regulations or ordinances in place so long as they are not inconsistent with the statewide order.

Even as Missouri gradually reopens, citizens are encouraged to continue taking precautions to protect themselves and others:

Stay home if sick
Wash hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitzer
Avoid touching your face
Sneeze or cough into a tissue or the inside of elbow
Disinfect frequently used items and surfaces
Avoid socializing in groups that do not readily allow for appropriate social distancing
Minimize travel to the extent possible

In addition, all businesses are encouraged to do the following:

Implement basic infection prevention measures informed by industry best practices
Modify physical work spaces to maximize social distancing
Minimize business travel
Develop an infectious disease preparedness and response plan
Do not allow symptomatic people to physically return to work until cleared by a medical provider
Encourage telework whenever possible and feasible with business operations
Return to work in phases and or split shifts
Limit access to common areas where personnel are likely to congregate and interact
Ensure that sick leave polices are flexible and consistent with public health guidance

AREA SCHOOL DISTRICTS, ONE TRANSPORTATION COMPANY RECEIVE MONEY TO HELP PURCHASE BUSES TO LOWER DIESEL EMISSION

Last Thursday, in conjunction with the 50^th anniversary of Earth Day, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded a total of $1,030,000 to 23 Missouri school districts and one Missouri school bus transportation company to replace 52 older diesel school buses.

The funds are part of $11.5 million to replace 580 buses for 157 school bus fleets in 43 states and Puerto Rico, each of which will receive rebates through EPA's Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) funding. The new buses will reduce pollutants that are linked to health problems such as asthma and lung damage.

School districts and bus transportation company receiving funds include:

Bowling Green R-I: $20,000

Festus R-VI: $115,000

Hillsboro R-III: $20,000

Louisiana R-II: $20,000

North Callaway R-1 $40,000

Sullivan: $40,000

Jarnik Buses $60,000

(Maryville)

April 27, 2020

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE PLANNED DURING OVERNIGHT HOURS FOR MISSOURI ROUTE 19 IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

MISSOURI GOVERNOR FURTHER OUTLINES REOPEN PLAN

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson says his plan to reopen the state from the coronavirus shutdown will include guidance for church services, sports and other events.
Parson said during a news conference on Friday that Missourians have "stepped up to do their part" in helping to reduce the spread of the coronavirus, allowing the state to move ahead with plans to allow businesses and other organizations to reopen starting May 4. He says more details will be announced next week about how the reopening will work. Parson says the guidance he will outline will include religious services, weddings and outdoor functions like sports.

SMITHFIELD FOODS BEING SUED OVER CORONAVIRUS SAFETY

A Heartland meatpacking plant is facing a federal lawsuit over its handling of coronavirus safety procedures.
The Smithfield Foods plant in Milan is being sued by the Rural Community Workers Alliance.
The RCWA is a non-profit operating out of Green City, run by a single person identified as Alex Fuentes, of Kirksville.
The group says in court documents that it is suing on behalf of a Milan plant worker only identified as "Jane Doe"
The suit, which was filed Thursday in the Western District of Missouri, not only accuses Smithfield of failing to protect its workers, it also says the company is essentially bribing its workforce to work in dangerous conditions by offering a $500 "responsibility bonus."
The lawsuit claims that bonus is only available if a worker doesn't miss a shift between April 1 and May 1.
The RCWA says that racism is at play, suggesting the company blamed "certain cultures" rather than a lack of personal protective equipment for an outbreak at its South Dakota plant.
The suit doesn't ask for money but that the company takes steps to protect its employees.
As of Friday morning Smithfield hadn't responded to the suit.

Weekend Report- April 25-26, 2020

MAN INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A Wright City man was injured in an accident that occurred at 3:05am Sunday in Lincoln County. 27 year old Cesar Santiago was on Route C when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck an embankment. He was taken to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER INJURED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY WRECK

A St. Louis driver was injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Sunday morning in St. Charles County. The patrol says that 27 year old Jerrick Cornelious was eastbound on I-70 when he changed lanes and lost control of his car, causing it to travel off the left side of the road and strike the concrete median barrier. He sustained minor injuries and was taken to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles for treatment.

TROY MAN HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A Troy man was hurt in a Saturday morning crash in St. Charles County. 21 year old Raymond Piorkowski was westbound on I-70 when he lost control and his truck ran off the right side of t5he roadway, struck a guardrail and a light pole. He was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

April 24, 2020

COUNTIES WITH MEATPACKING AND FOOD PLANTS SEEING SPIKE IN CORONAVIRUS CASES

Two rural Missouri counties are seeing huge spikes in coronavirus cases, including many connected to meatpacking and food plants.
Saline County on Wednesday reported 96 cases of the coronavirus. Moniteau County reported 55 cases, citing 29 as confirmed and 26 as "probable."
Neither county has reported a death.
Statewide, the number of confirmed cases topped 6,000 on Wednesday, and the death toll reached 229.
Data provided by Saline and Moniteau counties shows they have the highest per capita rates of infection in the state.
Saline County's is 419 per 100,000 residents and Moniteau County's is 341 cases per 100,000 residents.

COLUMBIA POLICE ARREST WANTED MAN AFTER STANDOFF, NEGOTIATIONS

On Wednesday, April 22, Columbia police arrested Roderick Jones, 36, of Columbia, on several felony charges. Prior to his arrest, Jones had an active warrant for Domestic Assault in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and a $100,000 cash bond only.

At approximately 12:19 p.m., CPD officers were provided a tip that Jones’ vehicle was located in the 2300 block of Parker Road. Upon arrival, officers were able to identify and determine that the suspect’s vehicle was there. Officers proceeded to make contact with neighbors to determine the residence in which Jones may be hiding.

When officers attempted to make contact with Jones, he barricaded himself in the residence. Officers proceeded to request additional resources which included members of the Violent Crimes Task Force, Street Crimes Unit and K-9 unit.

The BearCat, a personal protective vehicle, was also positioned at the scene. After 30 minutes of negotiations with the Patrol and Street Crimes Units, Jones surrendered.

Earlier this year, Jones had been identified as a suspect in a domestic assault incident where he fled the scene of the crime. He was also seen in this same area on April 16, which prompted CPD to ask the public for assistance in locating the suspect. CPD is grateful for the assistance of the citizens who provided the tip to help take a violent felon off of the streets.

This is an active and ongoing investigation. There are no further details to provide at this time. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

April 23, 2020

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday at approximately 8:58AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 900 block of Union Street in reference to a fire. Responding personnel found a house with heavy flame coming from both the lower and upper level. The fire was completely extinguished by about 12:30PM, but the building had suffered significant structural damage. Personnel with Mexico Public Works responded and pushed the building down to prevent anyone being hurt.

The house was vacant, but a family member of the owners had been staying in and around the house. The family member was in the attached garage when the fire started and the fire was caused accidentally, due to smoking. He appeared to have inhaled some smoke and Audrain Ambulance District treated him on scene. He refused further care. There were no other injuries from the incident.

MISSOURI TO USE NEW RESOURCE IN FIGHT AGAINST CORONAVIRUS

Missouri will now be using Google technology to help in the fight against COVID-19.

On Wednesday, Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced the launch of a new tool developed by Google to help health care providers connect with Missouri manufacturers and suppliers of personal protective equipment, or PPE.

The new tool is a joint effort between the state and the Missouri Hospital Association. It was built to help manufacturers that have shifted production to PPE enter the health care market and connect with buyers.

Parson also said the state will be receiving another resource to address the short supply of PPE in Missouri.

"The PPE shortage has been a top concern in Missouri and nationwide as health professionals and first responders respond to COVID-19. Today [Wednesday], I am pleased to announce the deployment of a decontamination system in Missouri to assist with the N95 mask shortage."

In an effort to conserve PPE amid the COVID-19 crisis, hospitals, health care providers and first responder agencies will have the opportunity to utilize the Battelle Critical Care Decontamination System (CCDS) starting next week.

A result of two decades of research and approved for use through the federal Food and Drug Administration, the system uses a process of vapor phase hydrogen peroxide to decontaminate the masks. Any one mask can be decontaminated using the process up to 20 times without impacting its integrity.

The system also has the capability to decontaminate 80,000 masks per day.

The Battelle CCDS is 100% federally funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, allowing the mask decontamination to be provided at no cost to health care providers.

There will be up to 13 drop-off and pick-up sites located throughout the state. The masks are then transported via a biohazard courier to the temporary site of the Battelle CCDS in Jefferson City. The masks will then be returned to the original drop-off/pick-up site approximately 72 hours following drop-off.

April 22, 2020

STATE OF MISSOURI SUES CHINESE GOVERNMENT OVER CORONAVIRUS

Missouri is suing the Chinese government over the coronavirus pandemic. The state's top prosecutor announced the lawsuit Tuesday.

It alleges that Chinese officials are to blame for the pandemic. Schmitt says the Chinese government lied about the dangers of the virus and didn't do enough to slow its spread.

An international law expert says lawsuits against other countries typically don't go anywhere because U.S. law generally prohibits them.

According to Johns Hopkins University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering, the number of Missouri deaths from the virus rose by 16 Tuesday to 215.

MODOT URGES DRIVERS TO BE AWARE OF WORK ZONES

As construction begins to ramp up this Spring, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is encouraging drivers to slow down and avoid distractions, especially when they are driving through work zones.

Last year, there were 39 truck-mounted attenuator (TMA) crashes.

Truck-mounted attenuators are pieces of safety equipment designed to absorbed impact in highway work zones.

There have been 18 of these crashes so far, this year, making the state on pace to see a record number of work zone crashes.

COLUMBIA POLICE ARREST MAN AFTER PURSUIT AND ACCIDENT

On Monday, Columbia Police arrested Lacy Jordan Jr., 65, of Columbia after colliding into another vehicle and damaging other vehicles and property in the 1400 block of Boyd Lane. Jordan was charged with Felony Driving While Intoxicated.

At approximately 9:55 p.m., officers witnessed the suspect’s vehicle speeding and committing lane violations while traveling eastbound on Hanover Boulevard, which prompted officers to conduct a traffic stop, but the suspect fled the scene.

CPD pursued the vehicle briefly, but officers terminated the pursuit after witnessing erratic driving of the suspect’s vehicle. The suspect was seen driving a white Chevrolet Impala with an adult male passenger.

At approximately 9:58 p.m., a 911 caller reported witnessing a wreck located in the 1400 block of Boyd Lane.

Upon arrival, officers immediately provided aid to Jordan and a passenger identified as Wayne Ronail Freelon, 52, of Columbia. Both were transported to the hospital by EMS, sustaining non-life threatening injuries.

This is an ongoing investigation, there are no further details to provide at this time. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

April 21, 2020

CORONAVIRUS DEATHS IN MISSOURI HIT 200

The coronavirus outbreak has now claimed 200 lives in Missouri and sickened thousands more.
COVID-19-related deaths in Missouri rose to 200, up 14 from Saturday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering, which has been tracking cases worldwide.
The data also showed the number of confirmed cases in the state increased to 5,991, up 219.
The deaths include 11 residents of Frontier Health and Rehabilitation in St. Charles County.
Another roughly 60 Frontier residents and a dozen employees have tested positive.

MAN ACCUSED OF KILLING WISCONSIN BROTHERS TO BE ARRAIGNED

A Missouri man accused of killing two brothers from Wisconsin is scheduled to be arraigned next month.

Garland Joseph Nelson, of Braymer, waived his right last week to a preliminary hearing in which the judge could hear the prosecutor's evidence against him and decide whether it was sufficient for him to stand trial.

Instead the 10 felony charges against Nelson will be formally read at his May 4 arraignment.

Among the charges are two counts each of first-degree murder in the deaths of 35-year-old Nick Diemel and 34-year-old Justin Diemel, of Shawano County, Wisconsin.

MISSING MEMPHIS WOMAN HOME SAFE

A missing northeast Missouri woman with a developmental disability is now back home safe and sound with her family.

A brother of Alicia Miller Dugger, of Memphis, Missouri, told KTVO that family friends found Dugger in Kansas City, Missouri, and returned her home to Memphis on Saturday evening.

She had last been seen in Kansas City on April 10, 2020, after she and a friend got separated following an argument.

By tracking the missing woman's EBT card, Kansas City police had been able to locate a convenience store that Dugger had been frequenting since her disappearance.

By talking to a store clerk who had seen her multiple times, police determined that Dugger did not appear to be in any harm or held against her will.

Family friends were then able to track Dugger down over the weekend and get her back home to Memphis.

April 20, 2020

MISSOURI GOVERNOR MOVING FORWARD WITH PLANS TO BEGIN TO REOPEN STATE IN EARLY MAY

Coronavirus cases continue to rise throughout the state of Missouri including 15 added deaths since Friday but Governor Mike Parson says he is moving forward with a plan to reopen the state.

Thursday, he unveiled the Show Me Strong Recovery Plan.

During a press conference on Friday, Parson detailed more of that initiative.

He says the state's approach will be deliberate and data-driven, and intended to protect those most at risk to COVID-19, all while returning Missouri to a new normal.

The essential pillar framework will allow the state to work through a gradual reopening, leading to a broader economic recovery. Specifically, Missouri's economic recovery plans will focus on the diversity of Missouri - it's people, businesses, communities and infrastructure.

Parson said the state is still currently in the immediate response phase and will soon move to the gradual reopening phase driven by Missouri-specific public health data.

During the same press conference, state officials gave an update on PPE, or personal protective equipment.

On Monday, KTVO reported the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency recalled 48,000 KN94 face masks distributed to law enforcement and fire personnel.

Testing done by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services found some masks did not meet safety standards.

Now, Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Sandra Karsten says the state has been working to distribute additional personal protective equipment to front line responders.

Karsten says the faulty masks were purchased from three different vendors.

Those vendors have since refunded the state's money and picked up the recalled masks, or are in the process of doing so.

The mask recall is something that the Missouri State Auditor's Office is continuing to investigate.

WIDELY USED PROJECTION PREDICTS MISSOURI REOPEN “AFTER JUNE 1”

Missouri suffered 15 deaths to COVID-19 since Friday, for a total of 185, according to data from Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering, which has been tracking cases worldwide.

The number of confirmed cases in the state increased to 5,772, up 212 over Friday.

According to widely-used University of Washington IHME projections, it has already been four days since Missouri's projected peak in daily deaths to COVID-19 at time of writing.

The predictions assume that current measures remain in place until June 1 in Missouri, a week and one day after COVID-19 deaths are projected to stop in the state.

President Donald Trump has left the issue of how, and when, to relax the current strategies up to state governors, after 'swift pushback' for claiming he had absolute authority to determine when states reopen.

Gov. Mike Parson said Thursday that he's got sights set on May 4 to begin phase one of his Show Me Strong recovery plan, KTVO reported.

Weekend Report- April 18-19, 2020

MAN KILLED IN SATURDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A Lake St. Louis man was killed in an accident that occurred at 7:25pm Saturday in Gasconade County. The patrol says that 36 year old Matthew Hewitt was riding his ATV on private property when it overturned and ejected him. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

WOMAN HURT IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

A St. Louis woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in St. Charles County. 25 year old Jane Morozovich was on Missouri Route 364 when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck the concrete barrier, returned to the road, traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck the concrete median barrier. She was taken to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles for treatment of minor injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A Waynesville driver was hurt in a Saturday morning crash in Franklin County. 48 year old Jerome Douglas was on Highway UU when his car ran off the right side of the road, he overcorrected, causing it to travel off the left side of the roadway and strike a tree. He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.

April 17, 2020

MISSOURI GOVERNOR EXTENDS STAY AT HOME ORDER

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has extended the statewide stay-at-home order, now set to run through Sunday, May 3.

The initial order was set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 24.

Despite the extension, Parson said plans are now in place to reopen the state.

Between now and Monday, May 4, Parson and state officials will continue monitoring the COVID-19 crisis with health, business and government leaders.

He said the state's approach to reopening will be "deliberate and data-driven."

Parson said reopening Missouri will come in two initial phases.

First, the state will work to protect health care workers, first responders and other direct care workers — so the most vulnerable citizens have access to care.

After that, the state will begin strategically reopening businesses.

These phases involve multiple steps that take into consideration the state's "data-driven approach."

Those steps include:

Rapidly expanding testing capacity and testing for patients who are contagious or immune to the virus
Expanding reserves of personal protective equipment, or PPE, by opening public and private supply chains while emphasizing the use of Missouri businesses
Improving the ability to predict outbreaks using Missouri public health data

Parson adds that social distancing has been working when it comes to combating coronavirus in Missouri.

JEFFERSON CITY POLICE OFFICER WOUNDED, SUSPECT KILLED IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT SHOOTING

Authorities say an officer has fatally shot a person who shot and wounded another officer following a police chase in Missouri.

Police say the wounded Jefferson City officer, who was wearing a protective vest, was shot in the chest and was in stable condition.

The pursuit started about 10:20 p.m. Wednesday after Jefferson City officers tried to stop a vehicle in connection with previous shootings, and the driver of the vehicle wouldn't stop.

Two people eventually got out of the vehicle and fled, and one allegedly fired at officers.

Police say another officer returned fire, killing the person.

The second person was taken into custody.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Wednesday at approximately 2:16PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the Clark Street Bridge, located in the 400 block of S Clark, in reference to a person being hit by a vehicle. Responding personnel found that Kayla Allen, age 21 of Mexico, was walking north in the southbound lane of the bridge, when she was struck by a 2013 Chevrolet being driven southbound by Raylynn Dollens, age 18 of Mexico. Allen was taken to University Hospital by Audrain Ambulance District where she was treated and released. No one in the Chevrolet was injured.

April 16, 2020

MISSOURI’S MAJOR CITIES TO DECIDE WHETHER TO EXTEND STAY AT HOME ORDERS

Regional leaders in St. Louis and Kansas City may decide by the end of the week whether to extend stay-at-home orders in Missouri's two biggest urban areas, regardless of whether the statewide mandate is allowed to expire.

Kansas City, St. Louis and their suburbs invoked stay-at-home orders several days before Republican Gov. Mike Parson issued one for the entire state that began April 6 and is set to expire April 24.

Parson has been non-committal about whether the statewide order will be extended, but has cited a need to restart the economy.

Missouri has recorded 4,784 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 153 deaths.

UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI LEADERS CONSIDER WAYS TO CUT COSTS

Leaders of the University of Missouri System are considering layoffs, unpaid leave and other ways to contain costs due to the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic.
University of Missouri System President Mun Choi said in a statement Tuesday that major sources of funding "will remain under stress for some time to come."
He said that effective May 1, he and other leaders are taking 10% salary cuts that will last until at least July 31.
Meanwhile, budget planners at each university are developing plans for cuts of up to 15%. Some budget-cutting decisions will be made by April 30.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Wednesday at approximately 1:45AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1400 block of N Western in reference to a fire. Responding personnel found fire in the kitchen, which was located at the back of the home. The fire was contained and extinguished in that location, after causing significant fire damage to the kitchen and moderate smoke and heat damage to the rest of the home. It was determined that someone staying in the home was heating grease on the stovetop, and the grease caught fire. The person threw a handful of flour at the flame, but it was not enough to extinguish it. All the residents exited the home as the fire grew and there were no injuries from the incident.

April 15, 2020

MISSOURI SUPREME COURT WEIGHS RETRIAL FOR MAN ACCUSED OF MURDER

Missouri Supreme Court judges are weighing whether to grant a new trial for a man who has spent more than two decades in prison for a murder he says he didn't commit.

Judges heard arguments remotely on 46-year-old Lamar Johnson's case Tuesday over concerns about coronavirus.

Johnson was convicted in the 1994 killing of 25-year-old Marcus Boyd over an alleged drug dispute.

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner agrees that Johnson is innocent.

She's asking the Supreme Court for a new trial.

But the state says only Johnson can ask for a new trial, and it's too late for that.

MISSING MEMPHIS WOMAN BELIEVED TO BE SAFE

A missing northeast Missouri woman is believed to be safe although she is not back with her family just yet.

On Tuesday afternoon, Memphis, Missouri, Police Chief Bill Holland gave KTVO-TV an update on Alicia Miller Dugger, 32, of Memphis.

Dugger, who has a developmental disability, was last seen Friday on Independence Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri.

She had gone there with a friend, and they got separated after getting into an argument.

Holland said officers from the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) were able to track activity on Dugger's EBT card.

They found a convenience store where Dugger had used the card several times, as recently as Tuesday.

KCPD officers spoke with a store clerk who has seen Dugger coming and going over the past three to four days. Holland said the woman seems fine and does not appear to be in any harm or held against her will.

Officers learned Dugger has been accompanied by a few different people when going to the convenience store.

Holland told KTVO-TV Dugger's family is going to have friends who live in Kansas City go to the area around the store to see if they can locate her.

He said the woman is no longer considered missing by KCPD.

MISSOURI IS FIRST STATE TO RECEIVE A RURAL TRANSIT GRANT UNDER THE FEDERAL CARES ACT

On Tuesday, Governor Mike Parson announced that Missouri is the first state in the nation to receive a federal grant for rural transit as part of national COVID-19 relief efforts.

On Monday the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced a $61.7 million grant to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act signed by President Donald J. Trump on March 27, 2020.

“These funds will provide a needed boost to rural transit systems in Missouri, as many have reduced service due to the COVID-19 crisis,” Governor Parson said. “I want to thank Secretary Chao and our Missouri congressional leaders, Representative Sam Graves and Senators Josh Hawley and Roy Blunt, for their role in obtaining these important funds for our state. This relief will help keep Missouri’s vital rural transit system operating for people who have limited transportation options and need it most.”

The CARES Act provides emergency assistance and health care response for individuals, families and businesses affected by COVID-19 and provides emergency appropriations to support Executive Branch agency operations during the pandemic. It includes $25 billion in transit assistance funding to support public transit recipients of urban and rural area funds, with $22.7 billion to large and small urban areas and $2.2 billion to rural areas.

MoDOT will use the funds for operating expenses and capital assistance for 30 Missouri rural agencies, including the Cape Girardeau County Transit Authority; the nonprofit OATS Inc., which operates in 87 Missouri counties; the City of Excelsior Springs; and the New Bourbon Regional Port Authority Ferry Boat Operator. Please see FTA’s apportionment tables for the totals apportioned to each area.

Operating expenses incurred beginning on January 20 are eligible, including operating expenses to maintain transit services as well as payment for administrative leave for transit personnel due to reduced operations during an emergency.

“MoDOT will work closely with rural public transit providers to implement this critical funding. I want to thank my staff for reacting so quickly when the grant availability was announced,” MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna said. “The grant application clearly painted a picture of Missouri’s rural transit challenges as a result of the coronavirus, and we are grateful to receive this vital aid.”

April 14, 2020

TWO INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two people from Laquey, MO were injured in an accident that occurred at around 11:35am Monday in Franklin County. The patrol says that 27 year old Matthew Ice was westbound on I-44 when he suffered a medical emergency, causing his vehicle to travel off the left side of the roadway and strike the concrete median. Both the driver and his passenger 26 year old Danielle Ice were taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

LINN COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT CONFIRMS FIRST COVID-19 DEATH IN COUNTY

The Linn County Health Department announced the first death of a Linn County resident from COVID-19 Monday. The department said it would not release any further information about the patient. The death is one of the now 114 that have occurred in Missouri. There are 5 total positive cases in Linn County and 4,388 in Missouri as of Monday afternoon.

MEMPHIS WOMAN MISSING IN KANSAS CITY

A mentally disabled woman from northeast Missouri is missing in Kansas City, Missouri.

Alicia Miller Dugger, 32, of Memphis, was last seen Friday on Independence Avenue in Kansas City.

Memphis Police Chief Bill Holland told KTVO on Monday that Dugger had gone to Kansas City with a male friend from Memphis.

The two reportedly got separated after getting into an argument.

Dugger's brother, Ty Sizemore, of Memphis, said his sister's cell phone was stolen, and she has no personal belongings with her.

Dugger is 5'6" tall, weighs 160 pounds with dark brown hair and hazel eyes.

Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to call the Memphis Police Department at (660) 465-2106 or the Kansas City Police Department at (816) 234-5000.

April 13, 2020

MISSOURI GOVERNOR ORDERS PUBLIC SCHOOLS CLOSED FOR REMAINDER OF SCHOOL YEAR

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has ordered all Missouri public and charter schools remain closed through the remainder of the academic year.

Exceptions have been made for nutrition services and child care, outlined in the recent Missouri health order.

The recommendation was made by working with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and several school superintendents from across the state, from both rural and urban school districts.

Parson says schools should continue remote learning for students until the end date previously set on the academic calendar.

MAN INJURED IN WARREN COUNTY ACCIDENT

An O’Fallon man was injured in an accident that occurred at around 4:45pm Sunday in Warren County. 28 year old Wesley Vaughan was eastbound on I-70 when his truck suffered a mechanical issue, which caused it to swerve suddenly and strike the concrete median barrier. He was transported by ambulance to Progress West Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

WOMAN HURT IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A Fenton woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Jefferson County. 69 year old Nancy Puckett was on Saline Road when her car traveled off the roadway, struck a sign and a tree. She sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment.

Weekend Report- April 11-12, 2020

WOMAN INJURED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY ACCIDENT

A woman from Bloomington, IL was injured in an accident that occurred at around 5:45pm Saturday in St. Charles County. The patrol says that 36 year old Jessica Deakle was a passenger in a car driven by 31 year old Garth Meyers of Bloomington, IL. They were on US 61 when he lost control and it traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck several trees and overturned. She was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

MAN HURT IN FRIDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Creve Coeur man was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Friday afternoon in St. Louis County. 27 year old Zachary Guerrero was westbound on I-70 when his vehicle ran off the left side of the road, struck the median wall and then traveled off the right side of the roadway. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to SSM Health DePaul Hospital for treatment.

April 10, 2020

MAN ARRESTED AFTER INTERSTATE SHOOTING IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

At around 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday April 7 members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol and deputies with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a shooting on eastbound Interstate 70, near the 175-mile marker, in Montgomery County.

A preliminary investigation indicated the driver of a passenger car had fired shots from a moving vehicle, striking and disabling another vehicle, which was also traveling eastbound. After the shooting, the victim’s vehicle came to rest in the median near the 175-mile marker. The victim’s vehicle was occupied by three people; no injuries were reported. Troopers learned that after the victim’s vehicle came to a stop, two tractor-trailer drivers parked their trucks around the van to shield it from additional gun fire. The suspect in the passenger car fled the area, ultimately traveling westbound on Interstate 70. A short time later, troopers located the suspect’s vehicle near the intersection of U.S. 63 and Interstate 70, in Boone County, Missouri. The driver and sole occupant, Chad Michael Kennedy, 28, Boonville, was taken into custody and transported to the Montgomery County Jail. On the afternoon of April 8 Kennedy was formally charged in Montgomery County Circuit Court with three counts of assault first degree, one count of armed criminal action and six counts of unlawful use of a weapon. The court denied Kennedy bond. The investigation is being conducted by members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control and deputies with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday at approximately 3:21PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 4400 block of Rivers Drive in reference to a grass fire. Responding personnel found part of a yard and the bottom portion of a wooden privacy fence burning. The fire was extinguished and there was no damage to any other property. It was determined that the resident was cutting the grass when dead leaves accumulating around the lawnmower, became too hot and began burning. There were no injuries from the incident.

April 9, 2020

MONTGOMERY COUNTY ROUTE JJ NOW OPEN AT PRICES BRANCH

Montgomery County Route JJ is now open at Price’s Branch, located one mile west of Montgomery County Route E near Bellflower.

The bridge at that location was closed Jan. 3, 2019, when significant deterioration was discovered during a routine inspection, and construction on the new bridge began Nov. 12.

“The new bridge is 24 feet wide, which is four feet wider than the old one,” said MoDOT Area Engineer Erik Maninga.

E & C Bridge, LLC, of California, Missouri, completed the project for just over half a million dollars.

This bridge is included in Gov. Mike Parson’s $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state.

MISSOURI SENATE BACKS FUNDING BILL TO FIGHT VIRUS

Missouri senators have voted to give Republican Gov. Mike Parson sweeping authority to spend billions of dollars in federal stimulus money as the state fights the coronavirus pandemic.

Senators on Wednesday approved the use of federal funding for medical supplies, local governments, nursing homes and other aid.

The House is expected to give the bill final passage later Wednesday.

Parson's administration asked for the authority to spend roughly $4.8 billion in federal dollars in response to the pandemic, but at least $1.8 billion of that hasn't been promised by Congress.

Lawmakers are taking social distancing precautions as they conduct business.

THREE CORRECTIONS OFFICERS ASSAULTED DURING DISTURBANCE AT MOBERLY CORRECTIONAL CENTER

The Missouri Department of Corrections said three corrections officers were assaulted Monday night at the Moberly Correctional Center.

Communications Director Karen Pojmann said Wednesday that there was a disturbance inside one of the facility's housing units.

Three officers were assaulted. Pojmann said two offenders instigated the incident, and four other inmates became involved.

No one required outside medical attention. The Corrections Emergency Response Team was activated, but officers on site had already regained control of the situation before they arrived.

April 8, 2020

COLUMBIA FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDS TO STRUCTURE FIRE

The Columbia Fire Department was dispatched to a residential structure fire at 903 Jefferson Street at 12:43pm on Tuesday. The first unit arrived less than four minutes later and observed smoke coming from the roof. Fire crews deployed a pre-connected hose line and ground ladders. Further investigation revealed a small fire in the attic space above the living room. The fire was quickly extinguished and the event brought under control in approximately fifteen minutes. Assistant Fire Marshal Kyle Edwards was dispatched to perform a fire origin and cause investigation. He determined the fire originated in the attic space above the living room. The cause was faulty wiring. Damage is estimated at $10,000. No injuries were reported.

LAWMAKERS ATTEMPT TO RETURN TO CAPITOL FOR VIRUS FUNDING BILL

Missouri lawmakers are taking extraordinary steps to return to the usually crowded state Capitol on Tuesday to pass an emergency coronavirus funding bill.

The Capitol has been closed to everyone except essential staff since March 24.

But lawmaker approval is needed for Gov. Mike Parson to spend what could amount to billions of dollars in federal funding for medical supplies, local governments, schools and other aid. A spokesman says the House aims to have fewer than 10 people in the chamber at any one time and for the 163-member chamber to vote one at a time.

April 7, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE ROCKS THROWN INTO POLICE DEPARTMENT WINDOW

The Columbia Police Department said Monday officers are looking for a person suspected of throwing rocks into the police department's building on Walnut Street in downtown Columbia.

The Columbia Police Department said Monday morning it's looking for a person suspected of throwing a rock through a window at the police station. A Facebook post from the police department said the person threw at least two rocks at the police department building on Walnut Street. Police said the first rock broke a window and the second caused minor damage to a break room. The post said if residents have any information about the person's identity they are asked to call the police department.

$13.6 MILLION IN CDBG FUNDS ANNOUNCED FOR MISSOURI COVID-19 RESPONSE EFFORTS

The Missouri Department of Economic Development has announced that it will receive $13.6 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) to support Missouri’s COVID-19 response efforts. The CDBG funds are part of over $57.7 million of HUD grants allocated to the State and individual communities. In addition to CDBG, the grants also include $19 million for the Emergency Solutions Grant program and $720,000 for the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS program. The State’s $13.6 million CDBG allocation will be allocated to non-entitlement areas across the state which include incorporated municipalities under 50,000 and counties under 200,000 in population. The Department will act swiftly to partner with non-entitlement communities and partner agencies to award these CDBG funds for COVID-19 response initiatives. Projects could include, but are not limited to, repurposing buildings into patient treatment centers, providing critical supplies such as ventilators and personal protective equipment, supporting businesses that manufacture medical supplies, and training health care workers for the frontlines of COVID-19 response.

April 6, 2020

WOMAN INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A High Hill woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 8:15pm Sunday in Montgomery County. 38 year old Amanda Stochl was on Red Oak Road when her vehicle traveled off the roadway, she overcorrected, causing it to strike a tree. She was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

MISSOURI COVID-19 CASES ABOVE 2,000

Confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus continue to climb in Missouri.

Patient deaths to the COVID-19 coronavirus disease increased by 10 in Missouri over the span of 24 hours the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reported Sunday afternoon. The total number of statewide COVID-19 Cases hit 2,367 Sunday, with 76 new cases.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR PARSON ISSUES STATEWIDE STAY HOME ORDER

Missouri Governor Mike Parson issued a statewide Stay Home Missouri Order to help combat COVID-19 on Friday.

The order took effect at 12:01 a.m. on Monday April 6 and runs until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 24.

Missouri has at least one positive case in 76 of Missouri's 114 counties. Over half of the total positive cases are in the St. Louis region.

Governor Parson said his order includes specific guidance for staying home, social distancing, businesses and employees, schools, restaurants, firearm sales and state government buildings.

The order does not prohibit Missourians from accessing essential services, such as grocery stores, gas stations, banks, or engaging in outdoor recreation, provided that necessary precautions are taken and maintained to reduce the transmission of COVID-19, including observing the social gathering and social distancing requirements set forth in the order.

Among other guidelines, the order requires the following:

Individuals currently residing within the state of Missouri shall avoid leaving their homes or places of residence
All individuals in the state of Missouri shall avoid social gatheirngs of more than 10 people
All public and charter schools must remain closed for the duration of the order
Any entity that does not employ individuals to perform essential worker functions, as set forth in guidance provided by the federal government, shall adhere to the limitations on social gatherings and social distancing
Any entity that employs individuals to perform essential worker functions, and that is engaged in retail sales to the public, shall limit the number of individuals in any particular retail location as follows: 25% or less of the entity's authorized fire or building code occupancy, as set by local authorities, for a retail location with square footage of less than 10,000 square feet OR 10% or less of the entity's authorized fire or building code occupancy, as set by local authorities, for a retail location with square footage of 10,000 or more.

Weekend Report- April 4-5, 2020

MAN INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A New Franklin man was injured in an accident that occurred at 8:15pm Saturday in Howard County. 23 year old Dylan Johnson was on MO 240 when he failed to navigate a curve, causing his car to travel off the left side of the roadway and overturn. He was taken to Boone Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY INCIDENT

A Washington woman was seriously injured in an incident that occurred at 9:55am Saturday in Franklin County. The patrol says that 88 year old Florence Tenhiolder was crossing the road on Highway YY when she walked into the path of a car driven by 58 year old Cherie Monzyk of New Haven. She was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

TWO HURT IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

Two people from Louisiana were hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Saturday morning in Pike County. 19 year old Jonathan Doris was on MO 79 when his vehicle traveled off the right side of the road and overturned. He suffered minor injuries while his passenger 31 year old Rachel Cotton sustained moderate injuries. Both were taken to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment.

April 3, 2020

SOUTH OUTER ROAD OF I-70 TO CLOSE NEAR NEW FLORENCE ON MONDAY APRIL 13

Weather permitting, Monday, April 13, the west end of the south outer road of Interstate 70 will close at New Florence beginning at Missouri Route 19. It is expected to remain closed for approximately four weeks. The closure is a result of permit work needed for concrete construction of the new Love’s Truck Stop entrance. Message boards will be in place notifying motorists of the upcoming outer road closure.

WITHOUT A STATEWIDE STAY AT HOME ORDER, LOCAL GOVERNMENTS STEP IN

Smaller local governments are issuing stay-at-home orders to slow the spread of the coronavirus in Missouri, where the governor hasn't issued a statewide order.
Such orders took effect more than a week ago in the state's biggest cities, including Kansas City and St. Louis. But smaller counties with few or no COVID-19 cases are getting in on the act and telling residents to only leave home for essential reasons, such as to buy groceries or medicine. Linn County’s order goes into effect on Friday. Chariton County has one in effect until April 24^th. Linn County currently has 1 confirmed case, while Chariton County has 4. Missouri has totaled 1,834 cases as of Thursday afternoon.

April 2, 2020

COVID-19 CASES CONTINUE TO RISE IN MISSOURI

Coronavirus cases in Missouri are rising at an alarming rate, but health experts say it's too soon to know if the state is emerging as one of the next hot spots for the pandemic.

Health officials say Missouri has 1,581 confirmed cases as of Wednesday, a jump of 19.1% from Tuesday. Eighteen deaths are blamed on COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus. Missouri's first confirmed case was reported March 7 and its second was March 12. Two weeks ago there were 24 confirmed cases, and 356 just a week ago. Confirmed cases have more than quadrupled since then.

CUBA, MISSOURI MAN ACCUSED OF INTENTIONALLY COUGHING ON CUSTOMERS AT DOLLAR STORE

A 33-year-old eastern Missouri man is charged with making a terrorist threat after police say he intentionally coughed on customers at a store and wrote COVID on a cooler.
Crawford County authorities say John Swaller, of Cuba, was arrested and charged Tuesday after a clerk at a Dollar Tree store in Cuba told police he was coughing toward customers and had breathed on a cooler before writing COVID on the inside.
Cuba Police Chief Doug Shelton says it is unknown if Swaller has the coronavirus.
The store was closed and sanitized after the incident.
Online court records do not name an attorney for Swaller

5TH ANNUAL HOME RUN AGAINST HUNGER

With 947,900 Missourians labeled as “food insecure” according to a Map the Meal Gap 2015 study and a widely growing number due to circumstances surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance recognizes the need to help out hungry families across the state. For the fifth consecutive year, team members are promoting donations from April 1, 2020 to April 30, 2020 to support Feeding Missouri and its many community affiliates as part of the Home Run Against Hunger campaign. There are new ways to give this year. To encourage social distancing, the Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance team asks donors to either text to give or give online with monetary donations. Text MOFB2020 to 44-321 and follow the prompts to utilize this new option. To donate online, visit: feedingmissouri.org/donate/and mention Missouri Farm Bureau in the “Business Name” field on the form. While non-perishable food donations are always great, to ensure safety in our communities, our offices will not serve as drop off locations this year. Instead, food donations should be taken directly to a local food pantry or food bank. In the first week of May, a statewide grand total of donations will be announced. Last year’s efforts garnered over 8 tons of food and nearly $13,000. Please take a moment to give between April 1, 2020 and April 30, 2020 and help us knock hunger out of the park!

April 1, 2020

COVID-19 CASES IN MISSOURI JUMP BY ALMOST 300

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Missouri has jumped by nearly 300, even as calls for a statewide stay-at-home mandate increased. The state health department said Tuesday that 14 people have died and 1,327 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed. That is a 28.7% increase from the 1,031 confirmed cases on Monday.

Gov. Republican Mike Parson has banned gatherings of more than 10 people statewide, but has declined to follow the lead of many states that have required people to stay home. Several health care organizations and Democratic politicians have called for a statewide stay-at-home order.

AMEREN MISSOURI PROVIDES PAYMENT OPTIONS FOR CUSTOMERS AFFECTED BY COVID-19

Ameren Missouri is continuing to monitor the spread of the COVID-19 virus and have taken steps to continue to provide their services to customers. Ameren Missouri continues to take service calls and work on critical infrastructure projects. While they are out and about, Ameren workers are practicing social distancing, and following the preventative measures advised by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and state and local authorities. Ameren Missouri asks their customers to maintain at least six feet of distance from work areas and stresses that you should still contact them if you have an electrical emergency. The numbers you can reach them at are: 800-552-7583 for residential services and 877-426-3736 for business services. Ameren Missouri is also helping those customers who may face financial hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic. They are reminding their customers that there are many ways to pay your bill. They are also recommending that those customers who are having difficulty paying their bill should contact the Customer Care team or visit the payment assistance page on their website.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Sunday, March 29 at approximately 10:50AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1100 block of E Promenade in reference to a man striking a parked vehicle with a baseball bat. This was apparently part of an ongoing dispute between the man and a resident of that block. Officers located the suspect approximately 15 minutes later in the 600 block of Mars St. James S Smith, age 60 of Mexico, was arrested for Property Damage 1^st degree, Driving While Revoked, Driving While Intoxicated-Chronic Offender, and Resisting Arrest. Smith was processed at MPSD and taken to the Audrain County Jail for the offenses.

There were no injuries during the incident.

March 31, 2020

SOUTH OUTER ROAD OF I-70 TO CLOSE NEAR NEW FLORENCE NEXT WEEK

Weather permitting, Monday, April 6, the west end of the south outer road of Interstate 70 will close at New Florence beginning at Missouri Route 19. It is expected to remain closed for approximately four weeks. The closure is a result of permit work needed for concrete construction of the new Love’s Truck Stop entrance. Message boards will be in place notifying motorists of the upcoming outer road closure.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT NEWS

The Montgomery County Health Department wants to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within our county while enabling essential services to continue. Therefore, currently it is highly recommended that all individuals remain at home as much as possible to help decrease the spread of this infection. This document outlines recommendations of physical distancing for individuals and businesses.

Stay at home or place of residence. All individuals currently living within Montgomery County are encouraged to stay at home or at their place of residence unless for essential activities, or to operate essential businesses and operations.

If individuals are using shared or outdoor spaces at their place of residence, it is recommended to adhere to physical distancing as much as possible.

Individuals experiencing homelessness are highly encouraged to obtain shelter. Those individuals whose residence is unsafe or becomes unsafe, such as victims of domestic violence, are urged to leave their home and stay at a safe alternative location.

Non-essential business and operations are highly recommended to close in Montgomery County. All businesses and operations within Montgomery County institute appropriate health and safety protections including social distance techniques (e.g., requiring people to be at least six (6) feet apart; reducing the number of employees, customers, or other people present; reducing face-to-face contact; using phone calls, virtual meetings, and drop-offs, curbside pick-ups rather than in-person contact). Non-essential business includes but are not limited to:

a. Golf Courses,

b. Barbers and Barber Establishments,

c. Cosmetologists, Hairdressers, Manicurists,

d. Gymnasiums,

e. Exercise Studios and Fitness Studios where specific gym equipment and other various types of classes are offered for people of all ages and abilities,

f. Massage Therapists and Massage Businesses

Know the sign and symptoms of COVID-19 and what to do if staff become symptomatic at the worksite. Encourage employees to stay home and notify the workplace administrators when sick.

Implement physical distancing measures, that are not limited to but include increasing physical space between workers, staggering work schedule, and decreasing social contacts in the workplace.

Increase personal protective measures by ensuring hand hygiene supplies are available. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at least twice a day.

All restaurants and retail food establishments that normally prepare food for on-site consumption are to only conduct pickup, drive-through or delivery services.

To the greatest extent feasible, all non-essential and essential businesses and operations should exercise physical distancing as much as possible. If open to the public, they should limit the number of people in their facility (including staff) to less than 10 and maintain social distancing of 6 feet apart.

March 30, 2020

STATE OF MISSOURI DISASTER REQUEST APPROVED. GOVERNOR MOBILIZES NATIONAL GUARD

The state of Missouri had its federal disaster request approved Friday. The approval will allow the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Public Assistance Program to be used to reimburse local governments, nonprofit organizations and the state for emergency protective measures.
In addition, Governor Parson has called for the mobilization of the state's National Guard.
Parson said the decision to mobilize the guard was made after meeting with officials in the state Department of Public Safety, Department of Health and Senior Services and the State Emergency Management Agency.
Parson said the Missouri National Guard is preparing to conduct several potential missions including, but not limited to, the following:
Assisting in the set up and operation of community based testing sites
Providing intrastate transportation of personnel and equipment for medical or testing support
Providing logistical support to local and state responders as needed
Continued assessment, facilitation, and construction of temporary medical or other facilities
The executive order mobilizing the Missouri National Guard will expire on May 15, unless Governor Parson chooses to extend it.

MOBERLY WOMAN TESTS POSITIVE FOR VIRUS AFTER SEEING CANCER DOCTOR

Our friends at KTVO have now confirmed that a woman in Randolph County who tested positive for COVID-19 was exposed to her cancer doctor, who tested positive just days after treating the woman.
The patient, Debbie Young, 62, of Moberly said Friday that she had seen her oncologist at Missouri Cancer Associates in Columbia on Wednesday, March 18.
The doctor learned that following Saturday that he had tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
Young said she got tested Monday after learning that her cancer doctor had tested positive. On Sunday, she had started experiencing a cough and a fever. Her positive test result came back Monday night.
Young told me she still has a cough and a low-grade fever that comes and goes.
She said her infected doctor was not wearing latex gloves when he examined her. Young said the physician had on a medical face mask when he came into the exam room, but he took it off and told her he was wearing it because he had been to Boston, when, in fact, he had been out of the country.
The same doctor sees patients at George Ray Cancer Center in Kirksville.
Patients at the Kirksville clinic who were exposed to the infected doctor on Thursday, March 19 are being monitored by the Adair County Health Department.
Administrator Jim LeBaron previously said that the infected doctor had recently returned to central Missouri after making a trip to Africa.

Weekend Report- March 28-29, 2020

MAN INJURED IN COLE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Jefferson City man was injured in an accident that occurred at 2:30pm Friday in Cole County. 59 year old Melvin Wolfe was riding his moped on Schott Road when it skidded on loose gravel and overturned. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A driver was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Sunday morning in Franklin County. 27 year old Wade Gildehaus of Gerald, MO was on Highway VV when his truck traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck a sign, a ditch, a driveway and overturned. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries.

GIRL SERIOUSLY INJURED IN RTV CRASH

A 14 year old girl from Marthasville was seriously injured in an RTV crash Saturday afternoon in Warren County. The patrol says that the girl was riding it on Concord View Road when she failed to negotiate a curve to the right causing it to travel off the left side of the road and strike a culvert. She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries.

March 27, 2020

COVID-19 CASES GROW ABOVE 500 IN MISSOURI

Missouri health officials say the state has 502 confirmed cases of the coronavirus as of Wednesday..

Eight people have died, including a 31-year-old Red Cross employee who was buried Tuesday in St. Louis as her family watched from their cars.

Gov. Mike Parson on Wednesday took several steps in response to the spread of the virus, including asking for a federal disaster declaration that would allow the state to receive federal assistance to help the unemployed and to remove biohazardous materials.

The governor also shifted another $11 million from state funds to buy more personal protective equipment.

FBI RELEASES STATEMENT ON POTENTIAL SCAMS

The following statement was released by the FBI regarding potential scammers trying to capitalize on COVID-19:

Scammers are leveraging the COVID-19 pandemic to steal your money, your personal information, or both. Don’t let them. Protect yourself and do your research before clicking on links purporting to provide information on the virus; donating to a charity online or through social media; contributing to a crowdfunding campaign; purchasing products online; or giving up your personal information in order to receive money or other benefits. The FBI advises you to be on the lookout for the following:

Fake CDC Emails. Watch out for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or other organizations claiming to offer information on the virus. Do not click links or open attachments you do not recognize. Fraudsters can use links in emails to deliver malware to your computer to steal personal information or to lock your computer and demand payment. Be wary of websites and apps claiming to track COVID-19 cases worldwide. Criminals are using malicious websites to infect and lock devices until payment is received.

Phishing Emails. Look out for phishing emails asking you to verify your personal information in order to receive an economic stimulus check from the government. While talk of economic stimulus checks has been in the news cycle, government agencies are not sending unsolicited emails seeking your private information in order to send you money. Phishing emails may also claim to be related to:

Charitable contributions

General financial relief

Airline carrier refunds

Fake cures and vaccines

Fake testing kits

Counterfeit Treatments or Equipment. Be cautious of anyone selling products that claim to prevent, treat, diagnose, or cure COVID-19. Be alert to counterfeit products such as sanitizing products and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including N95 respirator masks, goggles, full face shields, protective gowns, and gloves. More information on unapproved or counterfeit PPE can be found at www.cdc.gov/niosh. You can also find information on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website, www.fda.gov, and the Environmental Protection Agency website, www.epa.gov. Report counterfeit products at www.ic3.gov and to the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center at iprcenter.gov.

If you are looking for accurate and up-to-date information on COVID-19, the CDC has posted extensive guidance and information that is updated frequently. The best sources for authoritative information on COVID-19 are www.cdc.gov and www.coronavirus.gov. You may also consult your primary care physician for guidance.

The FBI is reminding you to always use good cyber hygiene and security measures. By remembering the following tips, you can protect yourself and help stop criminal activity:

Do not open attachments or click links within emails from senders you don’t recognize.

Do not provide your username, password, date of birth, social security number, financial data, or other personal information in response to an email or robocall.

Always verify the web address of legitimate websites and manually type them into your browser. Check for misspellings or wrong domains within a link (for example, an address that should end in a “.gov” ends in “.com” instead).

March 26, 2020

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Wednesday at approximately 3:09AM, a Mexico Public Safety officer located an abandoned vehicle in the roadway of the 600 block of Green Boulevard. The vehicle was a black, 1987 Ford Bronco. It was determined the vehicle had been stolen from the 400 block of S Clark and had apparently stopped working while being driven away.

Anyone with information about this or any other crime is asked to contact CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477 or contact Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100.

KIRKSVILLE MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE OF 12 YEAR OLD GIRL

A northeast Missouri man is accused of raping a 12-year-old Kirksville girl.

Anthony Sanders, 22, of Kirksville, is charged with first-degree statutory rape and enticement of a child, both felonies.

Police said the incident happened in the early morning hours of March 17.

According to court documents, Sanders and the girl went for a ride in his car to Steer Creek Way outside Kirksville.

Investigators said the two parked on a dead-end road, and Sanders forced himself on the girl and raped her.

Police seized the alleged victim's electronic tablet as evidence because they say it contained sexually explicit messages from Sanders to the girl.

Sanders is being held in the Adair County Law Enforcement Center. As of early Wednesday afternoon, bond had not yet been set.

MACON COUNTY CONFIRMS FIRST CASE OF COVID-19

The Macon County Health Department has confirmed the first positive case of COVID-19 in Macon County. The person is in self-quarantine and those with close contact are also in self-quarantine.

The department is not releasing more information about the person to protect their privacy. Healthcare and public health are working together to contain the spread of this virus, in a manner to protect the health of the community and the safety of our healthcare providers. They are communicating with local agencies as well as the Department of Health and Senior Services to maintain current situational awareness on COVID-19.

March 25, 2020

ASHLAND MAN ARRESTED AFTER THREATENING TO GIVE CLERKS CORONAVIRUS

Authorities say a 26-year-old central Missouri man is jailed after he threatened to give two store clerks COVID-19 by coughing on them.
Anthony Nunes, of Ashland, is charged with two counts of first-degree harassment.
The Jefferson City-News Tribune reports Nunes was coughing and told clerks in two stores that he had the virus.
One incident was reported Friday and the other on Saturday. He was being held Monday in the Cole County jail on $5,000 bond.
Sheriff John Wheeler says officers routinely take the temperature of incoming inmates and as of Monday, Nunes did not have a fever.

COLUMBIA ENACTS STAY AT HOME ORDER

On Tuesday, March 24, Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services Director Stephanie Browning signed a Stay at Home Order (Order 2020-03) related to the coronavirus (COVID-19).
The order was announced at a press conference with Columbia Mayor Brian Treece, Boone County Presiding Commissioner Dan Atwill, Browning and Columbia Chamber of Commerce President Matt McCormick on Tuesday at 10 a.m.
The order is effective beginning 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 25, 2020, and will continue to be in effect until 8 a.m. on April 24, 2020 or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded or amended. The order’s intent is to ensure that the maximum number of people stay at home to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) while enabling essential services to continue.
There are exemptions in the order related to essential activities, such as obtaining necessary supplies and services, activities related to health and safety, and more. All business and operations, except essential business and operations (as defined in the order), must cease.
Restaurants and retail food establishments may provide pick-up, drive-thru or delivery service.
As outlined in a previous order, all public and private gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, unless exempt by the terms in the order. All playgrounds will be closed to reduce the potential spread however, public outdoor recreation areas remain open.
Please read the order for all definitions and exemptions. The signed City order is attached. A document with answers to anticipated questions is at como.gov

March 24, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE CRISIS NEGOTIATION TEAM SUCCESSFULLY BRINGS SUBJECT TO SAFETY

At approximately 9:27 a.m. on Monday Columbia Police responded to a call of a female, 42 years of age, who was standing and sitting on the safety railing at the top of the Fifth and Walnut Street parking garage. Boone County Joint Communications advised officers that the subject was on the east side of the garage.

Members of the Crisis Negotiation Team were sent to the top of the garage to make contact with the subject. By approximately 11:02 a.m., members of the CNT were able to successfully bring the subject down to safety.

During the negotiations, access to Sixth and Walnut Street as well as parts of Fifth Street was closed off to traffic. Columbia Police appreciate the patience and cooperation of the public during this incident.

At this time, there are no additional details to provide. Anyone with information relating to this matter is asked to contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

COLUMBIA WOMAN INJURED IN SUNDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A Columbia woman is injured after an accident on Route HH Sunday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 58 year old Mark Hershbarger of Columbia was stopped at a stop sign at the intersection of Route HH and Brown Station Road at around 9:20 a.m. When he started into the intersection he struck a vehicle driven by 37 year old Terry Thomas of Columbia. Thomas’ passenger, 37 year old Luci-Lei Thomas was taken by ambulance to Boone Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries. Neither of the drivers was injured.

SCHUYLER COUNTY ISSUES STATE OF EMERGENCY

Officials in Schuyler County, Missouri, have issued a State of Emergency as of Monday, March 23, 2020. Following discussion and recommendations from the Schuyler County Health Department, the county commissioners are putting in place some rules and regulations for the county offices only at the Schuyler County Courthouse.

Effective immediately, only one worker per office will be allowed for all county (not state) offices in the Schuyler County Courthouse until at least the end of business day on April 6, 2020, and no public access to the county offices, with re-evaluation closer to April 6, 2020. The commissioners are allowing individual offices to work from home if applicable and to conduct all business by mail, email and/or phone and fax. The commissioners will not be holding any public meetings until at least April 7, 2020.
All citizens are asked to comply with necessary emergency measures, cooperate with public officials and comply with lawful directions of identified public offices.

March 23, 2020

MISSOURI GOVERNOR PARSON ORDERS STATEWIDE SOCIAL DISTANCING

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has ordered statewide social distancing according to a release on Saturday to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Some of the requirements in the order include:

Avoiding gatherings of more than 10 people
Restaurants are not to seat any dine-in customers
Nursing homes, long term care facilites, retirement homes, and assisted living communities may not admit any visitors other than those that provide critical assistance
All Missouri schools are closed until further notice

The order does make exceptions for grocery stores, gas stations, parks and banks provided that precautions are taken to reduce transmission of the virus including keeping customers at least six feet away from each other. The order went into effect at midnight Sunday.

ADAIR COUNTY HEALTH OFFICIALS REPORT FIRST COVID-19 CASE IN THE COUNTY

The Adair County Health Department reported the first confirmed case of Coronavirus COVID-19 in the county Saturday. The positive case is travel related.

The patient was in Chicago and first had exposure, then traveled to Kirksville by car. While traveling, the patient developed symptoms and immediately upon returning to Kirksville went under self-quarantine.

Health officials are working with the person to ensure compliance with Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines with regard to isolation and in identifying close contacts with other individuals to monitor them for symptoms. The Adair County Health Department is also working with Complete Family Medicine which is providing medical oversight for this patient.

The Adair County Health Department upon a review of the facts believes the risk of community spread from this positive test result is minimal, but we must work together, practice social distancing, and work to avoid spread within the community. If you have questions about COVID-19, please remember to refer to updated CDC guidelines.

Jim LeBaron, administrator of the Adair County Health Department, advises that residents continue to take the following measures to reduce transmission of the disease:

If you feel sick, stay at home and call your doctor. Do not go to work. Do not go anywhere. If you are having difficulty breathing and/or chest pain, call 911.
If your children are sick, keep them home and call their doctor.
If you are an older person, stay home and away from other people.
If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition that can put you at increased risk (for example, a condition that impairs your lung or heart function or weakens your immune system), stay home and away from other people.
Work or engage in schooling from home whenever possible. If you have to go to work, ask your employer about taking steps to protect your health, including taking temperatures of employees and putting more space between them.
Avoid travel, shopping trips, and social visits unless they’re absolutely necessary.
Practice good hygiene by washing your hands, especially after touching any frequently used item or surface. Avoid touching your face. Sneeze or cough into a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Disinfect frequently used items and surfaces often.

Weekend Report- March 21-22, 2020

MAN INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Montgomery City man was injured in an accident that occurred at 8:40pm Saturday in Montgomery County. The patrol says that 21 year old Timothy Proffitt was on Boonslick Road when he swerved to avoid hitting an abandoned vehicle, causing his car to overturn and travel off the roadway. He was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN FRIDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Friday afternoon in Cole County. 67 year old Richard Mollahan of Rochester, IL was on US 54 when he fell asleep at the wheel, causing his truck to run off the right side of the road and strike several trees. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital for treatment.

MAN HURT IN FRIDAY MORNING CRASH

A De Soto man was hurt in a Friday morning crash in Jefferson County. 66 year old Harley Hedley was on Highway V when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a curve sign and then some trees. He was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of moderate injuries.

March 20, 2020

MISSOURI GOVERNOR PARSON REPORTS FIRST CORONAVIRUS DEATH IN STATE

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson says the first reported coronavirus death in the state has occurred in Boone County. Parson did not provide further details on the patient during a Wednesday press conference with reporters. Columbia Mayor Brian Treece said the case was travel-related. Concerns about the coronavirus have prompted Missouri's governor to push back local elections for two months, forced the closure of one of the state's most iconic landmarks and led St. Louis' mayor to warn about possible community spread. 24 cases have now been confirmed in Missouri.

GEOTECHNICAL TESTS WILL OCCASIONALLY CLOSE LANES ON I-70

Motorists traveling along Interstate 70 will see some activity at the Missouri River Bridge near Rocheport over the next several weeks. As part of preparations for the construction of the new bridge, contractors for the Missouri Department of Transportation will be gathering geo-technical data and survey information. The tests, which involve drilling holes beneath the surface, will provide valuable information about the area’s rock and soil stability.

This process will require occasional lane closures while work takes place along the roadway and in the median. A single lane of westbound Interstate 70 will be closed at various locations on or near the bridge Tuesday, March 24 through Friday, March 27 between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Signs will be in place to alert motorists to the closures. Drivers are asked to slow down, pay attention and use caution through the work zone for the protection of themselves, other drivers and crews working along the road.

While no exact timeline has been established for the new bridge, construction is expected to begin in 2022. Work is weather permitting and could be delayed.

March 19, 2020

COLUMBIA OFFICIALS ANNOUNCE FIRST CORONAVIRUS CASE IN BOONE COUNTY

At a press conference on Tuesday, March 17, officials from City of Columbia, Boone County and MU Health Care announced the first positive case of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Boone County. The individual, who is in their sixties and recently traveled outside of the United States, is self-isolated in their home and is modeling good behavior since the onset of symptoms.
Staff members from Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) have been in contact with the patient and identified people who have had close contacts with the patient. Staff members will continue to follow-up with those persons. PHHS provided guidance and recommendations to keep the patient isolated and will continue to monitor the patient through the full period of isolation. The patient will be on home isolation until symptom free and two negative tests that are 24 hours apart.
As a result of the positive case, PHHS Director Stephanie Browning signed an order (Order 2020-01) related to gatherings to reduce the potential of disease spread between individuals.
At this time, the order limits public gatherings to no more than 50 people. The limit is 50 percent of their normal capacity or 50 people, whichever is less, including staff. This includes restaurants, retail food facilities, entertainment venues, and gym and fitness facilities. There is also a limit on gathering or events with persons at highest risk to 10 people.
This does not include cafeterias, commissaries, restaurants located within hospitals, nursing homes or similar facilities, adult detention facilities and juvenile justice facilities, grocery stores, farmers markets, pharmacies, food banks or crisis shelters.
PHHS asks that all community members practice social distancing as much as possible. An effective community response is an all community response. Browning emphasis that we all have a role in protecting ourselves and our community. Some of best things that each one of us can do include:

· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

· Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

· Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

· Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

· Stay home when you are sick.

NEMO MAN ARRESTED AFTER POLICE CHASE IN LEWIS COUNTY

A northern Missouri man is behind bars following a police chase that ended with a drug bust. On Friday, while on patrol in the Williamstown area, a Lewis County sheriff's deputy observed a vehicle without license plates on Highway E, and began following the vehicle. The driver attempted to evade the deputy by traveling on a county road. The deputy observed the passenger, later identified as Douglas Howes, 48, of Hannibal, Missouri, throw something out the window. After stopping the vehicle, the deputy found drug paraphernalia and a baggie containing methamphetamine along the gravel road. Howes was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, namely methamphetamine, and taken to the Lewis County Jail. Howes is a convicted felon who has been in jail for possession of a controlled substance, receiving stolen property, and manufacture of controlled substances. He remains at the Lewis County Jail on a no bond warrant.

March 18, 2020

GOV. PARSON ANNOUNCES APRIL 7 MUNICIPAL ELLECTIONS POSTPONED UNTIL JUNE 2 IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19

Pursuant to Governor Mike Parson’s Executive Order 20-02 declaring a state of emergency in response to COVID-19 and a request from Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, Governor Parson on Wednesday signed Executive Order 20-03 ordering all Missouri municipal elections previously scheduled for April 7 to be postponed to June 2.

The Executive Order declares that ballots already printed for the April 7 election may be used at the postponed date of June 2. Voters who have attained the age of 18 by April 7 will be allowed to cast a ballot.

“Given the growing concern surrounding COVID-19 and the large number of people elections attract, postponing Missouri’s municipal elections is a necessary step to help combat the spread of the virus and protect the health and safety of Missouri voters,” Governor Parson said. “Postponing an election is not easy, but we are all in this together. We are thankful to Secretary Ashcroft and our 116 election authorities for their leadership, cooperation, and commitment to doing what is best for their communities during this time.”

“I deeply appreciate Governor Parson’s quick approval and am thankful to the local election authorities – your county clerks and boards of election – who have worked through developing health concerns to find a unified and secure means of implementing our next election,” Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft said. “Missouri has 116 separate election authorities, almost all who are elected in their own right, and we have come together to help protect Missouri voters. These are difficult times, but I am grateful for how we have responded, worked together and come to a resolution that helps every single Missouri voter.”

COLUMBIA CITY COUNCIL PASSES RESOLUTION SUPPORTING STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION

In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Columbia City Council unanimously passed a resolution at their regular meeting on Monday, March 16, supporting the declaration of a state of emergency within the city. The resolution includes calling for proactive measures to protect the public health, safety and welfare; expressing support for and calling upon City Manager John Glascock and Public Health and Human Services Director Stephanie Browning to enact regulations to protect the public health, safety and welfare.
The resolution passed by Council gives Glascock and Browning the support to implement various measures to protect the public health, safety and welfare of the community but the potential measures listed in the resolution have not been enacted at the time of this release. Following the passage of the resolution, Glascock signed the formal declaration of emergency.
At this time, no private entities are being required to close, but social distancing is highly encouraged. In the coming days and weeks, Glascock and Browning will methodically determine what rules and regulations will apply during this ever-changing situation. The goal is to keep the COVID-19 virus from rapid spread within our community. When a rule goes into effect it will be in writing and issued by either Glascock or Browning.
While there are no confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Boone County at the time of this release, local leaders are preparing in the event that there is a local confirmed case. Glascock and Browning will continue their consistent communication with other City department directors, local leaders, residents and businesses to ensure the public health, safety and welfare of our community.
The City of Columbia created an enhanced information section on CoMo.gov that has information about the coronavirus (COVID-19). Information will be added as it becomes available about potential operation changes and other updates. The site can be found here: CoMo.gov/Coronavirus.

March 17, 2020

CANCELLATIONS DUE TO CORONAVIRUS:

The Montgomery City Knights of Columbus-Immaculate Conception Home and School are canceling their remaining fish fries to protect the public from possible exposure to Coronavirus.

The Montgomery County USDA Service Center has decided to cancel the Open House previously scheduled for Thursday.

FOUR INJURED, TWO SERIOUSLY, IN MONDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

Four people were injured, two seriously, in an accident that occurred on U.S. Highway 63 Monday morning. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 27 year old Stacie Pope of Maryland Heights, Missouri was northbound on U.S. 63 two miles south of Moberly at around 10:24 Monday morning. At that time a vehicle driven by 80 year old Kenneth Huntsman of Moberly was attempting to cross the highway from County Road 2715. Pope’s vehicle struck Huntsman’s in the driver’s side. Pope and her passenger, 29 year old Gorbachez Foreman of St. Louis, were taken by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of serious injuries. Huntsman and his passenger, 71 year old Donna Huntsman of Moberly, were taken by ambulance to Moberly Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

MAN HURT IN CALLAWAY COUNTY WRECK

A Fulton man was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Callaway County. 26 year old Cameron McKinney was on County Road 437 when he lost control of his homemade vehicle while navigating a curve, slid off the right side of the road and struck a tree. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries.

March 16, 2020

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WARREN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Wright City man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 3:45pm Sunday in Warren County. 34 year old Mark Snyder was on Route T when an unknown vehicle traveled into his lane, he attempted to avoid a collision and his car traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree. He was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.

WOMAN INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

A New Haven woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Franklin County. 41 year old Dorothy Sharpe was on Route E when her vehicle ran off the right side of the road, struck a driveway and overturned. She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY MONDAY MORNING CRASH

A St. Charles driver was hurt in an early Monday morning crash in Callaway County. The patrol says that 30 year old Tasha Lawson was westbound on I-70 when her truck went off the left side of the roadway, striking the median cables, then went off the right side of the road, hit an embankment and overturned. She sustained moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

March 13, 2020

KANSAS CITY BANS PUBLIC EVENTS OF MORE THAN 1,000 PEOPLE

Kansas City is banning all public events with more than 1,000 people as cancellations mounted around the state because of concerns over the new coronavirus.
Mayor Quinton Lucas made the announcement Thursday, shortly after organizers cancelled a St. Patrick's Day parade.
St. Louis and Springfield also canceled their parades.
Universities also have been calling off classes, while Missouri Senate Majority Leader Caleb Rowden said on Twitter late Wednesday that the chamber was canceling its session next week.
The German agribusiness giant Bayer AG has reopened a suburban St. Louis campus after an employee who was tested for the new coronavirus found out the results were negative.

STATEWIDE SEAT BELT CAMPAIGN ENCOURAGES TEENS TO BUCKLE UP

Law enforcement will be out in full force March 15 -31 to help improve teen seat belt use and save lives. Is your seat belt on? Seat Belt Check! Buckle Up! This year’s campaign theme, “Seat Belt Check!” reminds us to hold each other accountable and make a seat belt check before the car starts. Wearing a seat belt is your best defense in a traffic crash so make sure you and everyone in your vehicle are buckled up. Everyone, every trip, every time. “A car crash poses the single greatest threat to injuring or killing our youth, yet only 74% of Missouri’s teens buckle up” said Jon Nelson, MoDOT assistant to the state highway safety and traffic engineer. “We hope through a combination of statewide education and enforcement efforts, we can really drive the message home. Driving or riding without a seat belt is simply not worth the risk of interrupting all there is to enjoy about being a teenager.”

March 12, 2020

MISSOURI HEALTH OFFICIALS ACTIVATE CORONAVIRUS HOTLINE

State health officials activated a new Coronavirus hotline on Wednesday. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services says the hotline is being operated by medical professionals and will provide a variety of information 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can call the hotline at 877-435-8411.

TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY AND MIZZOU SUSPEND IN-PERSON CLASSES

Truman State University and the University of Missouri have joined the list of colleges that have suspended in-person classes due to concerns about the coronavirus outbreak. Truman is on spring break this week and will not conduct in-person classes next week to try to limit potential exposure to the virus. University offices on the Kirksville campus will remain open, while Pickler Memorial Library, the Student Recreation Center and Pershing Arena will remain closed next week. Students are not to return to campus, but they are reminded that it is not an extension of spring break. Professors will be in contact with regarding remote classwork for the week. Truman officials say this is a precautionary measure during a developing situation. There are no cases of the virus on the Truman Campus and the general student population is not among the known high-risk groups.

The University of Missouri has cancelled in-person classes for the rest of this week and the university has asked its faculty to plan to teach remotely next week. The Mizzou campus will then go on spring break the following week, returning to campus on March 30th. All non-essential university events have been cancelled through March 29^th as well. Mizzou officials also stress that there have been no cases of the virus on campus, although some students and faculty were told to stay home after attending a journalism conference in New Orleans where an infected person was also participating.

Lincoln University in Jefferson City has extended its spring break for another week in response to coronavirus concerns. Lincoln students will return to class on March 23^rd.

As of Wednesday night, Missouri still had just one confirmed case of the virus, a St. Louis County woman who recently returned from a trip to Italy.

March 11, 2020

MISSOURI MAN CHARGED WITH KILLING CLASSMATE IN 1991 DENIED BOND

A 43-year-old Missouri man charged with killing his 14-year-old classmate in 1991 has been denied bond after a prosecutor said people connected to the case might be in danger if he was released. William Christopher Niemet, of Fulton, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Greg Jones, whose body was found in June 1991 near Russellville. He has pleaded not guilty. At a hearing Monday, Niemet's attorney, Curtis Hanrahan, asked that Niemet be given $100,000 bond but a judge rejected that request. Cole County Prosecutor Locke Thompson said some people with ties to the case believed they would be in danger if Niemet was released on bond.

TWO NEMO COUNTIES SENT TWO COVID-19 TEST KITS EACH

Health officials told KTVO Monday that the U.S. has sent Adair and Scotland counties two COVID-19 test kits for each county. During a meeting in Memphis on Monday, Scotland County Hospital officials said the federal government had supplied them with a total of two test kits for the virus that causes COVID-19. When asked Monday afternoon, health officials at the Adair County Department gave the same count. The test kits enable local governments to test patients suspected of carrying the virus. As of late Monday evening, the coronavirus had claimed the lives of 26 people in the U.S. The Adair County Health Department in Kirksville added that some standard medical laboratory companies are accepting test samples for COVID-19. The tests would be subject to normal billing, making it an out-of-pocket expense for uninsured patients. Your doctor will determine whether or not you need to get a sample taken.

The Adair County Health Department confirmed that no cases of the virus have been detected in the county and that no patients are suspected of carrying it at this time.

NEMO MAN ARRESTED IN IOWA FOR TRYING TO STEAL MOTORCYCLE

A northeast Missouri man is in trouble with the law in southeast Iowa. The Wayne County Sheriff's Office said Jimmie Holliday, 66, of Unionville, Missouri, was arrested in the early morning hours of Tuesday in Corydon, Iowa. Chief Deputy David Lewis told KTVO Holliday was caught trying to steal a motorcycle from a residence in the 300 block of West North Street. The suspect is now charged with second-degree theft and possession of a controlled substance, which was a prescription sleep aid. Holliday also faces charges of driving while suspended and driving without insurance. He is being held in the Wayne County Jail on $5,000 bond.

March 10, 2020

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 9:15pm Monday in Taney County. The patrol says that 42 year old Jose Colon of Lampe, MO was on MO 86 ½ mile southeast of Hollister when his truck ran off the roadway into a residential building. He was taken to Cox South Hospital in Springfield with serious injuries.

TWO INJURED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

Two people from St. Louis were injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in St. Louis County. 22 year old Naftali Manuel was eastbound on I-70 and driving too fast for road conditions when he lost control of his car and it traveled off the left side of the road and struck the concrete median barrier. He sustained moderate injuries while his passenger 21 year old Mykalya Lennox suffered minor injuries. Both were transported by ambulance to SSM Health DePaul Hospital for treatment.

WOMAN HURT AFTER DEER RUNS INTO HER VEHICLE

A woman was hurt after a deer incident Monday morning in Callaway County. The report states that 69 year old Mona James of Buffalo, MO was on US 63 when a deer ran into her vehicle, striking the windshield and causing it to shatter. She was taken to Capital Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

March 9, 2020

WOMAN INJURED IN JEFFERSON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Festus woman was injured in an accident that occurred at 12:30pm Sunday in Jefferson County. The patrol says that 30 year old Rebecca Waugh was on West Rock Creek Road when she lost control of her vehicle and it overturned. She was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of moderate injuries.

WOMAN KILLED, MAN INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT CRASH

A woman was killed and a man was injured in a Sunday night crash in Jefferson County. 78 year old Jean Breckle of Cedar Hill was on Highway 30 making a left turn onto Cedar Hill Road when she pulled into the path of a truck driven by 38 year old Ronald Lalk of House Springs and their vehicles collided. She was pronounced dead at the scene while the man was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of moderate injuries.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Thursday, March 5 at approximately 8:55PM, Audrain County Joint Communications received a call from a person who stated the word “Walmart” then stated the words, “bomb, bomb,” and disconnected. The Mexico Public Safety Department responded to Walmart and confirmed with staff that the business had not received any threats and there had been no suspicious activity. Responding personnel and staff checked the building and there was no indication there was any actual danger. There were no injuries from the incident and the investigation into who called is ongoing. Anyone with information about this or any other crime is asked to contact CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477 or Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or 9573) 581-2100.

Weekend Report- March 7-8, 2020

MAN INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

A Jefferson City man was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday night in St. Francois County. 21 year old Garrett Mason was on Highway D when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck 2 signs and overturned. He was taken to Parkland Health Center in Farmington for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A St. Louis driver was hurt in a crash early Saturday morning in St. Louis County. The patrol says that a Ford Explorer driven by 44 year old Steven Lucas of Sunset Hill was merging onto Lindbergh Blvd. when it struck the right side of a car driven by John Matteucci of St. Louis. The St. Louis man was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of minor injuries.

MAN HURT IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Rolla man was hurt in an accident that occurred at 5am Saturday in Franklin County. 41 year old Michael Callahan was on Highway 100 when he swerved to avoid an animal in the roadway, overcorrected, causing his vehicle to travel off the left side of the roadway, overturn and strike a tree. He sustained minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment.

March 6, 2020

MONTGOMERY COUNTY ROUTE E WILL TEMPORARILY CLOSE FOR CULVERT WORK

Weather permitting, MoDOT crews will be doing the following work on Montgomery County Route E.

Montgomery County Route E - Mar. 9-13, road will be closed from Montgomery County Route CC to Pine Knot for culvert replacements. Work will be completed between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day.

Montgomery County Route E – Mar. 16-17, road will be closed from Pine Knot to Montgomery County Route O for culvert replacements. Work will be completed between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day.

Motorists will need to use alternate routes during these times.

This work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

COLUMBIA MAN WHO PLANNED A TERRORIST ATTACK HAS BEEN SENTENCED

A 28-year-old Missouri man who admitted plotting a terrorist attack in Kansas City has been sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison. Robert Lorenzo Hester Jr., was sentenced Wednesday. He pleaded guilty in September to providing material support or resources to terrorists. Hester, of Columbia, was charged in February 2017 with helping to plan an attack on buses, trains and a train station in Kansas City. Prosecutors said he thought he was working with ISIS terrorists but his contacts were actually undercover federal agents. Hester provided materials such as nails and duct tape that he believed would be used to create bombs.

MODOT TO CONDUCT ROUTINE BRIDGE MAINTENANCE IN BOONE COUNTY

Missouri Department of Transportation crews will conduct routine bridge maintenance that will close two sections of Boone County Route F:

Monday, March 9: Over Perche Creek, north of Porter Road.

Tuesday, March 10: Over Coon Creek, north of Stidham Road.

Work is weather permitting and could be delayed. Each road will be closed between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day. Motorists are advised to seek an alternate route around the work areas. MoDOT appreciates the patience of travelers while the work takes place.

March 5, 2020

HELICOPTER MAKES EMERGENCY LANDING

A medical helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing south of Moberly and close to Clark, near highway 63 and route B, in southern Randolph County Wednesday evening. According to authorities an Air-Evac helicopter was transporting a patient from Kirksville to Columbia when the helicopter had a mechanical issue resulting in the emergency. None of the 4 people on board at the time, the patient or the three crew members were injured as a result of the incident. First responders quickly worked to prepare a landing area so a second helicopter based out of the Moberly Air-Evac base could land and finish transporting the patient. The patrol said the craft did have some damage as a result of the landing. While the cause of the crash is unknown at this time, the company is conducting their own investigation and the FAA and Federal Transportation Safety board has been notified.

COLUMBIA WOMAN INJURED IN OVERNIGHT CRASH IN CLAY COUNTY

A Columbia woman is injured after an accident in Clay County early Wednesday morning. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 23 year old Jazmen Groves of Columbia was southbound on I-435 at the I-35 intersection just after midnight Wednesday. At that time, her vehicle traveled off the roadway and struck a concrete barrier. Groves was taken by KC Fire to North Kansas City Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

COLUMBIA OFFICIALS TO HOST COMMUNITY BRIEFING ON CORONAVIRUS

Columbia Mayor Brian Treece will host a community briefing and press conference Thursday, March 5, at 10 a.m., to discuss the area's combined efforts in planning and responding to the coronavirus. The briefing will include remarks from Mayor Treece, Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services Director Stephanie Browning, University of Missouri Chancellor Alexander Cartwright and MU Health Care Chief Medical Officer Dr. Stevan Whitt. The briefing will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 701 E. Broadway. All members of the media and community are invited to attend. The briefing will be live-streamed at http://gocolumbiamo.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=4ae03cbf-2aad-488e-b06a-906c5f1bb378

March 4, 2020

MONTGOMERY COUNTY ROUTE E WILL TEMPORARILY CLOSE FOR CULVERT WORK

Weather permitting, MoDOT crews will be doing the following work on Montgomery County Route E.

Montgomery County Route E - Mar. 4-6, road will be closed from Montgomery County Route DD to Montgomery County Route CC for culvert replacements. Work will be completed between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day.

Montgomery County Route E - Mar. 9-13, road will be closed from Montgomery County Route CC to Pine Knot for culvert replacements. Work will be completed between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day.

Motorists will need to use alternate routes during these times.

This work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

MISSOURI HOUSE PASSES REVAMPED VOTER ID LAW

The Republican-led Missouri House has passed a revamped version of a Missouri voter photo identification law that was gutted by the state Supreme Court. Judges in January permanently blocked a central provision of the 2016 voter identification law that required voters without a photo ID to make a sworn statement in order to cast a regular ballot. The Republican-led state House in response on Monday voted 109-45 for a bill that would give voters two options: either show a photo ID to cast a regular ballot or cast a provisional ballot.

KIRKSVILLE MAN’S LAWYER SPEAKS ON CLIENT’S MURDER CONVICTION

With the high-profile murder trial of Danny Welte now over, we're hearing from his defense attorney for the first time. In light of overwhelming evidence against the Kirksville man, Welte's lawyer, Charlie James, says that after the fact his team's goal throughout the trial was to avoid a first-degree murder conviction. The defense also argued for Welte to be convicted of manslaughter, but James admits, the chances for that outcome were slim. Judge Steele will weigh evidence from both the Prosecution and the Defense, as well as a report from the State Board of Probation and Parole, before sentencing Welte. May 4th is the scheduled date for the sentencing hearing.

March 3, 2020

MODOT ANNOUNCES BRIDGE PROJECT CLOSING ROUTE 63 IN COLUMBIA

Missouri Department of Transportation crews will be fixing a bridge joint on northbound U.S. Route 63 over Interstate 70 in Columbia this week. The work began on Sunday night as the passing lane of the northbound Route 63 bridge over I-70 was closed to traffic. One lane will be open at all times to traffic. The work is expected to be completed by Wednesday. There will be signage in place to warn drivers of the closed lane ahead. Motorists are encouraged to slow down, use caution, and pay attention in the work zone. Work is weather permitting, and could be delayed. For more information and updates about this project or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/central. Follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on Facebook and Twitter for project updates.

MORE THAN 800 APPEALS FILED OVER MEDICAL MARIJUANA LICENSING

More than 800 appeals have been filed by companies that were denied state permits to grow, sell or distribute medical marijuana in Missouri. As part of the process to launch Missouri's new medical marijuana program, the state received 2,266 marijuana business applications filed by at least 700 different groups. It awarded 60 licenses to grow marijuana, 86 to make marijuana-infused products and 192 to open dispensaries. The state's Administrative Hearing Commission had received 845 appeals of those denials by Friday. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has hired three outside lawyers to help the state's legal team review all the appeals.

MAN INJURED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A Hermann man was injured in an accident that occurred at around 3pm Monday in Gasconade County. 23 year old Joshua Vance was on MO 19 when he failed to negotiate a curve, traveled off the roadway, struck a utility pole and a tree. He was taken to Hermann Area District Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

March 2, 2020

ONE KILLED, ANOTHER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A woman was killed and a man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 4:20pm Sunday in Osage County. The patrol says that 79 year old Bobbie Copeland and his passenger 72 year old Phyliss Copeland of Vienna, MO were on US 63 when their vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a metal post and overturned, struck another metal post and a building. She was pronounced dead at the scene while the man was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

MAN HURT IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY CRASH

An O’Fallon man was hurt in a motorcycle crash Sunday night in St. Charles County. 36 year old Korey Kintz was riding his motorcycle on Highway N when he failed to stop at a stop sign, swerved to avoid an unknown vehicle and was ejected from the motorcycle. He was transported to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

BODY OF MISSING NEMO MAN FOUND

A missing northeast Missouri man has been found dead. According to the Marion County Sheriff's Office, Harrison Charles Vessell, 22, of Hannibal, was found deceased on Saturday. Authorities say Vessell left his residence on West Ely in Hannibal, Mo., on foot just before midnight on Monday, February 17. He was in possession of a 9mm handgun. The next day, an Endangered Person Advisory was issued for Vessell.

Prior to leaving his home, he left a note that contained suicidal statements. Further contact was made via text message with an acquaintance, but then his cell was reported to not be functioning. On Saturday, Vessell was found deceased by search parties and located within the city limits of Hannibal. Our sister station, KHQA reports that Marion County Coroner Richard Jones pronounced Vessell dead at 1:36 p.m. The investigation was conducted by the Marion County Sheriff's Office with assistance from the Hannibal Police Department. No foul play is suspected and authorities say this is an isolated incident.

March 1, 2020

MAN AND WOMAN INJURED IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A man and a woman from Blue Springs were injured in an accident that occurred at 2:20pm Saturday in Cooper County. The patrol says that 42 year old Robert Meier and his passenger 43 year old Jamie Meier were riding a Harley Davidson Tri-Glide motorcycle on Highway 41 when he failed to negotiate a turn, causing the motorcycle to travel off the right side of the roadway and overturned, ejecting both from it. Both were transported by ambulance to University Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

MAN HURT IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

A Fulton man was hurt in a motorcycle crash Saturday morning in Cole County. 39 year old Travis Adkerson was on US 50 when his motorcycle ran off the left side of the road, struck a pavement edge and overturned. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to SSM St. Mary’s for treatment.

TEEN HURT IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A Sullivan teen was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Sunday morning in Franklin County. 18 year old Cailie Ann Head was on Hardecke Road when her Jeep traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck a ditch and overturned. She was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for treatment of minor injuries.

February 28, 2020

MONTGOMERY COUNTY ROUTE E WILL TEMPORARILY CLOSE FOR CULVERT WORK

Weather permitting, MoDOT crews will be doing the following work on Montgomery County Route E.

Montgomery County Route E - Mar. 9-13, road will be closed from Montgomery County Route CC to Pine Knot for culvert replacements. Work will be completed between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day.

Motorists will need to use alternate routes during these times.

This work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

MISSOURI HIGHWAY PATROL ASKS FOR PUBLIC HELP IN SEXUAL ASSAULT CASE

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control is asking for the public's help regarding a sexual assault investigation in the Lake of the Ozarks area. Last month, Carl Mort, 41, and Cassandra Wedeking, 39, of Overland Park, Kansas, were formally charged by the Morgan County Prosecuting Attorney with 1st degree rape, four counts of sodomy, and drug charges.
The charges were the result of an ongoing investigation in the entire Lake of the Ozarks region, including Camden, Miller, and Morgan counties.
Investigators from the Division of Drug and Crime Control are requesting anyone who has information about any sexual assaults that may have occurred over the past five years in the Lake of the Ozarks region to please come forward. Both a male and a female suspect may have befriended the victim(s), provided alcohol/drugs before or after taking them to a boat, and then sexually assaulted them.
If you are a victim, possible witness, or can provide any further information about the potential crime(s) described, please contact the MSHP Troop F Criminal Unit at telephone number 573-526-6329, ext. 3632.

February 27, 2020

BOONVILLE WOMAN DIES IN WEDNESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT ON I-70

A Boonville woman is dead after an accident on I-70 in Cooper County Wednesday morning. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 35 year old Chantel Winfield of Boonville was westbound on I-70 just east of the 114.6 mile marker at around 6:30 Wednesday morning when she lost control of the car on a patch of ice. The vehicle traveled off the left side of the road and struck the concrete barrier then returned to the road. While back on the road, Winfield made an attempt to exit her vehicle while it was moving and it continued off the right side of the road. She was pronounced dead at the scene by the Cooper County Coroner.

TRIAL FOR KIRKSVILLE MAN ACCUSED OF KILLING HIS WIFE BEGAN TUESDAY

After pleading not guilty, the Kirksville man charged with murder in the shooting death of his estranged wife will get what he requested: a trial by jury.

Danny Welte is accused of murdering his wife, Echo Leanne Welte, in the Kirksville Days Inn parking lot on November 17th, 2016. Welte faces charges of first-degree murder and armed criminal action.

His trial started Tuesday morning with jury selection in Adair County Circuit Court.

Police said in a 2016 probable cause statement that Danny Welte shot Echo Leanne in the back of the head with a handgun, then he fled the scene. Welte’s daughter told police on the scene that Welte called her afterward, apologizing.

Security cameras recorded the killing on video. Both Welte and a witness who tried to stop Echo’s death gave authorities a story that matches the security camera footage.

Jurors are expected to view evidence including the security video, which shows Echo’s death, during the course of the trial. Judge Russell Steele told the room that researching the case outside of the trial as a juror would be a Class A misdemeanor under Missouri law. Seven men and seven women were selected to serve on the jury.

HUGE TRANSFORMER ESCORTED ON US 63 FROM LAPLATA TO QUEEN CITY

A piece of equipment so large it required traffic control and a law enforcement escort made its way through northern Missouri on Wednesday. A massive transformer arrived in La Plata by rail and was then loaded onto a large multiple-axle trailer. It was hauled north on Highway 63 through Kirksville to Schuyler County Route O in Queen City. The Missouri State Highway Patrol provided an escort for the massive transformer, which measures 12’ wide by 13.5’ high by 30’ long. It will be put in place as part of the High Prairie Wind Farm project. It was being transported to a new substation along Route O where it will be connected to a new transmission line. This is part of the wind farm being developed by Terra-Gen. Motorists along Highway 63 had some minor delays due to the huge shipment making its way through. La Plata Fire and Rescue helped blocked Highway 63 in La Plata for a while. Those on the scene said they had never seen anything so massive on the road. Kirksville police also provided traffic control on Highway 63 in Kirksville. Sergeant Tom Rohn, who was part of Wednesday's escort, cautioned that northeast Missouri motorists should be aware as those in charge of the wind farm continue to haul in more wide loads in the coming weeks.

February 26, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE MAKE SECOND ARREST IN CONNECTION WITH SHOOTING

Columbia Police have arrested a suspect in connection to a deadly shooting, which occurred during a home invasion earlier this month. 25 year old Justin Shelton was taken into custody Monday night on suspicion of second-degree murder. 20 year old Grace Avery was arrested in the same case last Friday. Court documents connect the two to the shooting death of Joseph Taylor, during a home invasion on February 5^th. Shelton is being held without bond as the investigation continues.

MILAN MAN CHARGED WITH MURDER

A Milan man has been charged with murder in connection with a December death. 32 year old Luke Hunsaker, of Milan, was arrested Tuesday. He has been charged with second-degree murder and delivery of a controlled substance. Milan Police say Hunsaker is accused of distributing a drug that resulted in the death of a victim in Milan on December 24^th. He is being held on $100,000 dollars cash-only bond.

POLICE RELEASE NAME OF KIRKSVILLE CRASH VICTIM

Kirksville Police have released the names of the drivers involved in a fatal traffic crash, which occurred in Kirksville on Monday. 28 year old Monica Steele, of Kirksville, died from injuries sustained in the collision at the Highway 63/Route 6 intersection. Investigators say Steele was driving an SUV northbound on 63 when a tractor-trailer, driven by 49 year old John Blenz, of Kingman, Kansas, attempted a left turn into her path. Blenz was treated for minor injuries.

February 25, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE MONDAY MORNING ASSAULT

Columbia Police investigated an assault that took place in the downtown Columbia post office early Monday morning. At approximately 1:36 a.m., Feb. 24, CPD was notified that a man had been assaulted with a pole at 511 E. Walnut St., inside the lobby of the U.S. Post office located in downtown Columbia. The victim was reported to have left the U.S. Post office and walked to the Columbia Police Department after the assault. Officers made contact with the man in the lobby of the police department and emergency medical personnel arrived and transported the victim to a hospital to treat life-threatening injuries.

Eddie B. Linzie, 43, of Columbia, was arrested for assault in the first degree and armed criminal action. Linzie remains in custody at the Boone County Sheriff’s Department.

This is an ongoing investigation, and there is no additional information to release at this time. Anyone with information relating to this matter is asked to contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

MISSOURI BILL LOOKS TO DECREASE TEEN SUICIDE RATE

According to the United Health Foundation, the rate of teen suicide last year reached ten per 100,000 teenagers. However, in Missouri, about 15 out of every 100,000 teens died by suicide. State representatives in Missouri are looking to reduce that number.

Members of the House have discussed a bill that would allow unaccompanied minors to enter into their own mental health contracts. One strong supporter of the bill is Mary Chant. Chant is the Executive Director of the Missouri Coalition of Children’s Agencies.

Chant is a strong supporter of the bill and believes it will combat the serious situations that unaccompanied minors face. The bill is sponsored by Representative Patricia Pike of Adrian, Missouri.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Friday, February 21 at approximately 7:58AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 900 block of W Breckenridge in reference to a burglary that had just occurred. Responding personnel found evidence that John S Kelly, Jr., forced his way into a home in that block at a time he thought no one would be home. Kelly took some property that was evidence in another crime he is being investigated for. There are currently court orders of protection in place stating Kelly was to not be at the address or have contact with the residents. At approximately 1:30PM, Kelly was arrested for the offense. He was processed at MPSD and taken to the Audrain County Jail for Burglary 1^st degree, Violation of an Order of Protection, and Tampering with Physical Evidence.

February 24, 2020

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO 1991 KILLING OF RUSSELLVILLE BOY

Authorities say a suspect is in custody in the 1991 killing of a 15-year-old central Missouri boy. Cole County authorities announced the arrest Friday but provided few other details about the suspect in the death of Greg Jones, of Russellville. The suspect's name is not being released because of his age at the time of the death. Jones went missing in April 1991 and his remains were found in June of that year. Authorities said they would not comment further until the case is reviewed by county juvenile authorities.

MOBERLY TEEN ARRESTED AFTER LEADING AUTHORITIES ON MANHUNT

A north Missouri teen is behind bars accused of fleeing from authorities, almost running over a sheriff's deputy and prompting a manhunt. Triston Paul Rainer, 18, of rural Moberly, was taken into custody just before noon on Friday on a warrant for felony assault and felony resisting arrest.
The charges stem from an incident Thursday night in Moberly when authorities say Rainer fled from deputies as they attempted to stop his truck for careless driving.
From Moberly, they ended up south of Huntsville on County Road 2160. During the incident, a deputy was almost hit by Rainer's truck.
Officers with the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Missouri State Highway Patrol and Moberly Police Department searched for Rainer after he abandoned his truck on County Road 2435. He was located and arrested just before noon Friday along that same road.

Rainer is being held on $150,000 cash-only bond.

KNOX COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE INVESTIGATES BURGLARY

The Knox County Sheriff's Office is working to investigate a burglary. According to NEMO News, that incident was reported south of Hurdland on Friday, February 14. Thousand of dollars worth of property was allegedly stolen from a lodge and nearby shop on Wednesday, February 12. NEMO News says stolen items include shoulder mount deer heads, a full-body turkey mount, pelts, an antique shotgun, 50-inch television, Lincoln arc welder and other miscellaneous tools. Anyone with information about the crime is asked to contact the Knox County Sheriff's Office at (660)397-2186.

Weekend Report- February 22-23, 2020

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRIDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A Moscow Mills man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 10:30am Friday in St. Louis County. The patrol says that a freightliner driven by 53 year old Marcus Johnson of Memphis, TN and a car driven by 26 year old James McInroy were westbound on I-70 when they both entered a construction zone and the freightliner stopped abruptly causing the front of the car to strike the rear of the freightliner’s towed unit. McInroy was transported by Air Evac to SSM Health DePaul Hospital with serious injuries.

TEEN HURT IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY WRECK

An O’Fallon teen was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Thursday afternoon in St. Charles County. A 16 year old boy was on Missouri 370 when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway, went down a hill, struck a guardrail and overturned onto Harry S. Truman Boulevard. He was taken to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles for treatment of minor injuries.

WOMAN INJURED IN THURSDAY MORNING CRASH

An Imperial woman was injured in a Thursday morning crash in Jefferson County. 35 year old Kristine Jones was on Highway W when her vehicle ran off the right side of the road and struck a utility pole. She sustained minor injuries and was taken to St. Clare Hospital for treatment.

February 21, 2020

COLUMBIA MAN NOW CHARGED IN MISSING WIFE CASE

The American husband of a 28-year-old Chinese woman who has been missing since October is now charged with first-degree murder in her death, even though her body hasn't been found.

Joseph Elledge, of Columbia, Missouri was charged Wednesday in the death of Mengqi Ji. Prosecutors are seeking a $5 million cash-only bond.

A probable cause statement says Elledge did not contact anyone about his wife's disappearance for more than 24 hours and during that time took two drives to rural areas where a body could be disposed of. Authorities have been searching for Ji's body in the Lamine River near Boonville.

LEWIS COUNTY MAN, ALREADY ON PROBATION, ARRESTED FOR BURGLARY

A northeast Missouri man, already on probation, is in trouble with the law once again.

On Sunday, the Lewis County Sheriff's Office arrested Steven Clay, 44, of La Belle, Missouri, on one count of burglary in the 2nd degree, a class D felony.

Deputies responded to a report of a possible order of protection violation in La Belle involving Clay. When deputies arrived, Clay was located and taken into custody.

Upon investigation, it was found Clay had entered the residence unlawfully and subsequently was arrested for burglary. Clay is currently under the supervision of the Missouri Department of Probation and Parole for previous felony convictions in the Lewis County Courts. Clay pled guilty on January 6, 2020 to property damage of the same residence where he was located on February 16, and received 180 days in the Lewis County Jail. That sentence was suspended and he was given supervised probation. Clay remains in the Lewis County Jail on a no bond warrant pending a court appearance.

PREPARED FOODS COMPANY TO BUILD NEW FACILITY IN MOBERLY

A north Missouri town received some great economic news this week. Plumrose USA, a prepared foods and packaged meat company, is planning to build a new bacon facility that will produce ready-to-eat, fully cooked bacon in Moberly. The facility is expected to bring nearly 200 new jobs to the region. In a release from Missouri Partnership, Plumrose USA cited Moberly’s strategic location, as well as support from the community and the state, as key reasons for the decision to expand in the area.

February 20, 2020

PHOTO OF SECOND SUSPECT RELEASED IN MEMPHIS STOLEN PART CASE

A northeast Missouri sheriff's office is still trying to identify two men who stole an expensive part off of a farm tractor. On Wednesday, the Scotland County Sheriff's Office released a surveillance photo of the second suspect wanted in connection with Tuesday morning's crime outside Memphis. Whitney said the surveillance pictures are from a Casey's General Store in Schuyler County. The images were captured about 40 minutes before the duo carried out their crime. Whitney said the two men arrived at Ed's Machinery on Highway 136 just west of Memphis, Missouri, on Tuesday morning. Just after 8 a.m., one of them asked to test drive a tractor. He then drove the tractor to County Road 601 approximately half a mile away. At that location, the tractor's rear power take-off and housing were removed and stolen. The thieves then drove away from the scene in a white Ford F-250 pickup truck. The total value of the stolen property is around $3,500. Anyone with information about this crime or the men involved is asked to call Scotland County Sheriff's Office at (660) 465-2106. The photos of both men are available at ktvo.com

WANTED SUSPECT ARRESTED AFTER BEING SPOTTED AT MOBERLY BUSINESS

On Monday at 8:00 PM officers with the Moberly Police Department responded to Bratcher’s Market, 301 S Morley St, after receiving a tip of wanted person, Jack Cox, being present at the business. Officers were aware two active Randolph County warrants existed for Cox. As officers arrived they made contact with Cox who was exiting the business. Cox was placed under arrest for two active warrants;

During a search of Cox officers located drug paraphernalia related to methamphetamine use. Cox was unable to post the required $50,000 cash only bond related to his existing warrants and was transported to the Randolph County Jail.

Officers later responded back to Bratcher’s Market in reference to a report of stealing. It was determined Cox and a second male in his company at the time of this arrest stole groceries from the business just prior to officers’ arrival.

Additional charges related to stealing and possession of drug paraphernalia will be forwarded to the Randolph County Prosecutor’s Office for formal filing.

HOUSE HEARING INVOLVES BILL TO OVERTURN MISSOURI BAIL RULES

On February 19, 2020, the Missouri House Judiciary Committee held a hearing regarding House Bill 1937. Its purpose is to overturn the bail rules that were adopted by the Missouri Supreme Court in July 2019. The new bail rules that were implemented in July were intended to prevent nonviolent offenders from being stuck in jail simply because they cannot afford bail. The American Bail Association and other critics have noted an unwelcome effect of the legislation. They say that these rules severely limit the ability of judges to impose monetary conditions for pretrial release and have all but eliminated the use of bail as an option. The coalition and other critics have pointed to a significant increase in violent crime, including several high-profile incidents involving defendants released by criminal courts without having to post bail.

The chair of the committee pointed out that there is some disconnect in terms of what the rules appear to say and how the rules are being applied in local jurisdictions.

A vote on this legislation will occur sometime in the next few weeks.

February 19, 2020

COLUMBIA MAN CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH JANUARY ROBBERY

A Columbia man has now been charged in a robbery that took place late last month.

According to police, 23 year old Austin Turner admitted to family and a friend that he took part in a robbery at the University of Missouri on January 31^st. Turner is being charged with first degree robbery in connection to the incident. The robbery happened on Hitt Street near the Memorial Union on the campus of the University of Missouri. According to MUPD, the victim reported being robbed by two men, including one with a knife, who punched him and took his cellphone. The victim told police he chased the robbers and one of them dropped his cellphone, MUPD reported. The robbers reportedly told the victim they had a gun. Turner is being held on 100,000 dollars bond.

ENDANGERED PERSON ADVISORY ISSUED FOR MARION COUNTY MAN

An Endangered Person Advisory has been issued by the Marion County, Mo., Sheriff's Office. Harrison Charles Vessell, 22, is 5'9" tall, weighing 213 lbs. with brown hair and hazel eyes. He was last seen wearing a grey coat with blue jeans and black shoes. Vessell left his residence on West Ely in Hannibal, Mo., on foot just before midnight on Monday, Feb. 17. He was in possession of a 9mm handgun. Prior to leaving, Vessell left a note indicating suicidal statements. Further contact was made via text message with an acquaintance, but his cell phone is reported to not be functioning at this time. Anyone seeing Harrison Charles Vessell, or anyone having any information related to his location, should immediately dial 911 to contact the nearest law enforcement agency or call the Marion County Sheriff's Office at 573-769-2077.

PUBLIC HELP NEEDED IN IDENTIFYING TRACTOR PTO THIEF

A northeast Missouri sheriff's office is asking for the public’s help to identify a man who stole an expensive part off of a farm tractor. The Scotland County Sheriff's Office said that at 8:05 a.m. Tuesday, two men arrived at Ed's Machinery on Highway 136 just west of Memphis, Missouri. One of them asked to test drive a tractor. He then drove the tractor to County Road 601 approximately half a mile away. At that location, the tractor's rear power take-off and housing were removed and stolen. The thieves then drove away from the scene in a white Ford F-250 pickup truck. The total value of the stolen property is around $3,500. Anyone with information about this crime or the men involved is asked to call Scotland County Chief Deputy Bryan Whitney at (660) 465-2106.

February 18, 2020

I-70 CRASH INJURES TWO

Two Columbia women were injured after a two vehicle accident on I-70 Sunday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 27 year old Sara McCahon of Columbia was entering I-70 eastbound at the 121.6 mile marker. The crash report says McCahon’s vehicle came to a complete stop and turned westbound into the eastbound lanes. Her vehicle was struck head on by a tractor trailer driven by 68 year old Howard Salickram of Orlando, Florida. Both McCahon and her passenger 23 year old Elizabeth McCarthy of Columbia were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of serious injuries. Salickram was not injured.

OVERNIGHT FIRE DESTROYS NEMO MOBILE HOME

An overnight fire destroyed a mobile home in northeast Missouri. According to the Edina Sentinel, the call came in just after 2:30 a.m. Monday. The home is located near the intersection of Reid and South Fourth streets in Edina. Several agencies responded including the Edina Volunteer Fire Department, Edina Police Department, Knox County Sheriff's Office and Ameren Missouri. No injuries have been reported. Authorities say the home was unoccupied when the fire started and that the homeowner is currently out of town. The mobile home is a total loss. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY VEHICLE CHASE ENDS IN ARREST IN CLINTON COUNTY

A vehicle chase that began in Livingston County Sunday ended in an arrest in Clinton County. According to a Facebook release from the Livingston County Sheriff’s office, a vehicle was pulled over in Livingston County on U.S. Highway 36 and the occupants were not cooperating with Missouri State Highway Patrol Troopers. The vehicle began to flee the scene. A chase ensued that included officers from the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department, Chillicothe PD and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The suspect vehicle eluded officers with spike strips and hit high speed while on Highway 36. Livingston County law enforcement disengaged from the chase around Cameron. The car was eventually stopped in Clinton County where it was revealed to be stolen. Other evidence including a firearm was seized. One of the occupants also had multiple arrest warrants.

February 17, 2020

MAN INJURED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Foristell man was injured in an accident that occurred at 5pm Sunday in St. Charles County. The patrol says that 43 year old Samuel Famous was eastbound on I-70 and following an unknown vehicle too closely when it hit the brakes, causing him to swerve to the left and his car traveled off the road, struck a concrete median wall, returned to the roadway, went off the right side, struck a chain link fence and overturned. He was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

THREE INJURED, TWO SERIOUSLY IN SATURDAY NIGHT WRECK

Three people were injured, two seriously in a two-vehicle wreck Saturday night in Jefferson County. 20 year old Dylan Pettus of Pacific, MO was on Lynch Road when his car ran off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to travel into the northbound lanes and collide head-on with a car driven by 52 year old Lilia Gonzalez of House Springs, MO. Both drivers sustained serious injuries while a passenger in Gonzalez’s car 52 year old Allen Forrester of Dittmer, MO suffered moderate injuries. All three were taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment.

WOMAN HURT IN FRIDAY MORNING CRASH

A Marthasville woman was hurt in a Friday morning crash in St. Charles County. 60 year old Kathy Luecker was on Route T when she rounded a curve and the right side tires on her truck dropped off the right edge of the roadway which caused the right rear of it to strike a culvert and overturn. She was taken to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

Weekend Report- February 15-16, 2020

DRIVER INJURED IN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A driver was injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Sunday morning in Morgan County. 21 year old Dakota Eden of Cole Camp was on MO 135 when his car traveled off the right side of the road, struck a chevron sign and a utility pole before overturning. He was transported by ambulance to Bothwell Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

MAN HURT IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

An Auxvasse man was hurt in an accident that occurred at 11:30pm Saturday in Callaway County. The patrol says that 42 year old Joshua Heyen was on Route DD when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway and struck a utility pole. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to Fulton Medical Center for treatment.

WOMAN HURT IN FRIDAY MORNING CRASH

A Russellville woman was hurt in a Friday morning crash in Cole County. 24 year old Chelsea Lafferty was on Route C when her car went off the right side of the road while trying to avoid another vehicle and came to rest after striking a utility pole. She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

February 14, 2020

I-70 BLANCHETTE BRIDGE SCHEDULE STARTING NEXT WEEK

Motorists on Interstate 70 should expect possible delays during their commute beginning Monday, Feb. 17 as crews start preparing for the eastbound I-70 Blanchette Bridge rehabilitation project.

During this construction project, there is potential for significant delays crossing the I-70 Blanchette Bridge. Motorists should consider using Route 370, Route 364 and Interstate 64/Route 40 as alternative routes. Traffic delays are expected during peak travel times from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. eastbound and 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. westbound.

Every day between Monday, Feb. 17, through Friday, Feb. 21, crews will close the following:

Two eastbound right lanes closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Two westbound right lanes closed from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The following week, crews will prepare for the upcoming traffic switch that will move two eastbound lanes onto the westbound bridge. At this time, the westbound bridge will be reduced to three lanes until November 2020 during this time.

Starting at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21:

Two left eastbound lanes and two left westbound lanes will be closed overnight for crews to place traffic barrier to prepare for the traffic switch.
By 6 a.m. Saturday morning one left lane in both directions will be closed and will remain closed for up to three weeks.

During the week of Feb. 24:

Crews will have up to two left eastbound lanes closed from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Two left westbound lanes will be closed from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For two consecutive weekends starting Friday, March 6 and Friday, March 13:

Various lanes will be closed over the weekend to restripe lanes and prepare to switch two eastbound lanes onto the westbound bridge. Westbound traffic will be reduced from five lanes to three lanes during this work.

Starting the weekend of Friday, March 13:

The on-ramp from Veterans Memorial Parkway to eastbound I-70 will close. This is the ramp just east of the convention center. This ramp will remain closed until November 2020. Drivers wishing to enter eastbound I-70 can use the 5^th Street entrance ramp as an alternate route.

Nighttime closures are possible for the Fifth Street ramp to eastbound I-70.

Westbound traffic will return to the original configuration by November 2020.

Additional lane closures during off-peak hours will only impact the eastbound bridge during the 2021 construction season.

The $33 million rehabilitation project awarded to KCI Construction Company will consist of replacing expansion joints, performing steel repairs on the truss and approach spans, and repainting the entire eastbound bridge.

All work is weather-permitting and may be shifted due to inclement weather.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A St. Clair man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 3:35am Friday in Franklin County. The patrol says that 33 year old Anthony Heck was on Highway 47 when his truck traveled off the east side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to overturn and travel off the west side of the road, before striking a rock bluff and ejecting him from the truck. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington with serious injuries.

February 13, 2020

FULTON MAN INJURED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Fulton man was injured in an accident that occurred at 11:25pm Wednesday in Callaway County. The patrol says that Kenneth Hall was westbound on I-70 in the left lane passing an unknown tractor trailer when the tractor trailer made a lane change into the left lane, causing Hall’s car to travel off the left side of the roadway and strike the median cable. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

TEEN HURT IN WEDNESDAY NIGHT WRECK

A Columbia teen was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Wednesday night in Boone County. 19 year old Lane Rose was on Route VV when his vehicle ran off the left side of the road, struck the ground and overturned several times. He sustained moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to University Hospital for treatment.

WOMAN HURT IN MORGAN COUNTY CRASH

A Gravois Mills woman was hurt in a Wednesday night crash in Morgan County. 26 year old Stevie Tye was on MO 5 when her car traveled off the left side of the road and struck a curb. She was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital in Jefferson City for treatment of minor injuries.

February 12, 2020

FEDERAL FUGITIVE CAUGHT AND ARRESTED AFTER LENGTHY HIGH SPEED CHASE

A federal fugitive, who was also wanted in connection with a Linn County armed robbery, led multiple law enforcement agencies on a chase through parts of Livingston, Carroll and Saline Counties before being taken into custody, Tuesday afternoon. Officers say the suspect, 37 year old Matthew Guilford of Brookfield was known to be armed and dangerous at the time of the pursuit. They say it reached speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour at times, on Highway 36 in the Chillicothe area and then southbound down Highway 65, through Carrollton and finally ending near Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall, where the suspect was taken into custody. Authorities say meth was found scattered on the driver’s seat and the interior of Guilford’s pickup and additional contraband was recovered after being thrown from the vehicle during the chase. Guilford faces a federal warrant and Linn County charges, in addition to multiple charges connected to the pursuit. Further details are expected to be released on Wednesday.

PROPOSED BILL BANS SOME IN STATE TUITION OFFERS

A Missouri bill would ban public colleges and universities from offering in-state tuition discounts to students living in the U.S. illegally.

Missouri schools now face losing state funding if they offer those students anything less than the tuition rate charged to international students. That's because of budget restrictions that state lawmakers have enacted in recent years.

Suburban St. Louis Republican Sen. Bob Onder's bill would enshrine that budget policy in law.

Critics say the cost of international tuition creates barriers for those students to attend college and could push them to leave Missouri.

OREGON MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES AFTER I-70 TRAFFIC STOP

An Oregon man is facing multiple charges following a vehicle stop on Interstate 70 in Cooper County. The vehicle was stopped for speeding and lane violations.
Missouri State Highway Patrol K-9 Rony helped find 45 lbs. of marijuana inside a suitcase and plastic totes. Ecstasy and other pills were also seized.
The online arrest report states the man is being charged with Delivery of a Controlled Substance – Marijuana and Possession of a Controlled Substance - Pills (3 Adderall pills, 3.5 Xanax pills, 2 Amphetamine pills, and 22 Ecstasy pills).

February 11, 2020

PUBLIC MEETING IN NEW FLORENCE ON TUESDAY

When bridge replacements are adjacent to an interchange area, the current and future needs related to traffic flow are reviewed to provide the best design to manage the area’s needs.

“There will be displays at the meeting showing the four options being considered for the bridge replacement and interchange improvements,” said MoDOT Area Engineer Erik Maninga. “We encourage individuals to stop by the meeting and provide feedback, as well as, sign up for email and text alerts to stay up-to-date on the project,” he added. All displays and information presented at the public meeting will be posted online, as well as the opportunity to comment. The link will be live the day of the public meeting at https://www.modot.org/missouri-route-19-bridge-replacement-over-i-70.

This is an open-house style meeting, so individuals may stop by anytime in that time to visit with MoDOT representatives about the project.

A construction schedule won’t be established until after the project is funded. Those interested can subscribe to the email and text notification system at https://www6.modot.mo.gov/eMoDOTWeb/jsp/signon/signon.jsp.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A Columbia man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 10:35pm Monday in Boone County. The patrol says that 41 year old Shawn Sims was northbound on 763 North of Harvester Road when he lost control and crashed his scooter. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

MISSOURI AG DEPARTMENT ADDRESSING BACKLOG OF DICAMBA COMPLAINTS

The Missouri Department of Agriculture is trying to address a backlog of about 600 complaints from farmers who say drift of dicamba-based herbicide has damaged their crops.
St. Louis Public Radio reports some of the complaints date back to 2016.
State lawmakers are considering a budget request from the agriculture department to hire more staff to handle the backlog.
The agency wants to add four investigators and two staff members to review the cases.
The farmers complain that dicamba drifts from other fields and kills their crops.
The state agriculture department has received 755 dicamba-related complaints since 2016.

February 10, 2020

MAN INJURED IN JEFFERSON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was injured in an accident that occurred at 9:35pm Sunday in Jefferson County. The patrol says that 24 year old Dylon Laiban of Cedar Hill, MO was on Highway Z when his car crossed over the center line, he overcorrected, spun out and went off the north side of the roadway, struck a ditch and overturned. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of moderate injuries.

TEENS HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

Two teens were hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in St. Louis County. 19 year old Jamyla Harper of Florissant was eastbound on I-270 when her car hydroplaned, spun out, struck the median wall and overturned. She sustained moderate injuries while her passenger 17 year old Anya Kennard of St. Louis suffered minor injuries. Both were taken to SSM Health DePaul Hospital for treatment.

STATE OF MISSOURI BUILDS ON EFFORTS TO BECOME A MODEL EMPLOYER

Last Week Governor Mike Parson announced that Missouri is 1 of 13 states selected by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) to receive additional technical assistance (TA) to help more citizens with disabilities obtain competitive, integrated employment.

The ongoing TA is part of an emerging trend under the Visionary Opportunities to Increase Competitive Employment (VOICE) initiative that will help Missouri improve employment outcomes within its statewide mental health systems.

Last September, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 19-16, announcing the Missouri as a Model Employer initiative.

Currently, approximately 80 percent of working age individuals in Missouri without a disability are employed. However, only 37.1 percent of working age individuals with a disability are employed.

The goal of Missouri as a Model Employer is to increase the employment rate of all Missourians with disabilities. As part of the Governor’s Executive Order, Missouri has implemented professional development, training and supports for state agencies to help increase the recruitment and retention of employees with disabilities.

The Missouri as a Model Employer implementation team will be working with private businesses to support similar diversity initiatives to meet workforce needs.

VOICE states receive intensive policy consulting, technical support and ongoing mentoring through onsite, telecommunications, and virtual mediums to support the strategic aims of their efforts to increase competitive integrated employment for individuals with mental health disabilities.

Weekend Report- February 8-9, 2020

WELLSVILLE WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Wellsville woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 10:35am Saturday in Montgomery County. The patrol says that 64 year old Stephen Kleinsorge of Montgomery City was on MO 19 when he slowed and was preparing to make a right turn when his truck was struck in the rear by a car driven by 60 year old Mary Nation. She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

MAN HURT IN SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

A man was hurt in a two-vehicle wreck Saturday morning in Cooper County. 46 year old Allen Steele of Myerstown, PA was westbound on I-70 when he merged into the path of a car driven by 21 year old Ethan Amsden of Hillsboro, MO, causing both cars to travel off the roadway, strike a rock embankment and came to rest in the roadway. Allen Steele was taken to University Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

TEEN INJURED IN FRIDAY NIGHT CRASH

A teen was injured in a Friday night crash in Camden County. 17 year old Shelby Mount of Sunrise Beach, MO was on Sellers Road when her Jeep Cherokee ran off the left side of the road, began sliding, returned to the road, traveled off the right side of the road, struck several trees and overturned. She sustained minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital for treatment.

February 7, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE HOME INVASION RESULTING IN SUSPECTS DEATH

Columbia Police responded to a report of a home invasion at a residence in the 1400 block of Doris Drive at approximately 7:10 p.m., Wednesday. The resident reported that two suspects entered the residence. During the incident, one suspect was struck by gunfire from the resident and was pronounced dead on the scene by Emergency Medical Services (EMS). The deceased was identified as Joseph Valention Taylor, 17, of Columbia. The second suspect left the area before officers' arrival, responding officers immediately set up a perimeter. The K-9 unit began a track on the suspect but was unsuccessful. He was described as a black male with short hair, wearing blue jeans, a white shirt and white shoes. With assistance from the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) unit, detectives with the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) are actively investigating this incident. As this is an ongoing investigation, there are no further details to provide at this time. If you saw something or know something, say something. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

MISSOURI MAN SUES STATE SUPREME COURT OVER PRISON BOARDING COSTS

A Missouri man at the heart of a state Supreme Court case that overturned what critics called modern-day debtors' prisons is suing the local officials who put him there.
Lawyers for 65-year-old Warrensburg resident George Richey sued St. Clair County officials Tuesday. Richey is one of two Missouri men who sued over boarding costs for time spent in county jails. Those are commonly referred to as board bills. Supreme Court judges last year ruled unanimously that while inmates are responsible for those costs, judges cannot send people back to jail for not paying. Richey says his unlawful imprisonment destroyed his life.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES GRANTS FOR MORE THAN 100 MISSOURI LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

On Thursday, Governor Mike Parson announced the Missouri Department of Public Safety has awarded 106 Missouri law enforcement agencies a total of more than $700,000 in grants, KRCG-TV reports.

The grants will help purchase equipment, including ballistic vests, first aid and trauma kits, police radios, light bars and sirens, in hopes of increasing safety across Missouri.

The complete total is $708,000 from the federal Local Law Enforcement Block Grant (LLEBG/JAG) funds from the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance. Each law enforcement agency's grant is limited to a maximum of $9,999.99, and then they must purchase their approved equipment by June 30, 2020.

The funding will help pay for the following:

143 ballistic vests
67 police radios
5 vehicles
174 light bars/lights
40 siren boxes/speakers
38 car cages/partitions
272 reflective vests/protective clothing (cut-resistant gloves, raincoats, parkas)
307 first aid/trauma kits
13 body cameras
1 in-car camera
6 mobile data terminals
193 flashlights
70 protective shields, helmets, and batons
113 handcuffs, leg restraints
155 miscellaneous items, including metal detectors, thermal imaging equipment, equipment storage boxes, etc.

Click here for a list of each agency that received a grant, the grant amount, and the equipment that will be acquired with the funding.

February 6, 2020

COLUMBIA MAN’S CHILD ABUSE TRIAL WILL NOT BE MOVED

The child abuse trial of a Missouri man considered the prime suspect in the disappearance of his Chinese wife will not be moved out of Boone County. A judge ruled Monday that a jury will be selected elsewhere for Joseph Elledge's trial. The Columbia Daily Tribune reports that Circuit Judge Brouck Jacobs delayed a decision on whether to dismiss one of three felony counts against Elledge. Prosecutors allege Elledge struck his 1-year-old daughter last year. Authorities call Elledge the prime suspect in the disappearance of his wife, Mengqi Ji Elledge, who has been missing since Oct. 8. No charges have been filed.

MISSOURI SENATE ADVANCES REDISTRICTING PLAN

Missouri's Republican-led state Senate is advancing a plan to revamp key parts of a ballot initiative on redistricting that was approved by voters just two years ago. Senators gave initial approval Tuesday to a plan to lower "partisan fairness" and "competitiveness" to the least important factors among criteria used to draw state House and Senate districts. If passed by the full Legislature, the measure would go before voters this year. Republicans have raised concerns that the 2018 plan could lead to snaking districts that span both urban and rural areas in an effort to increase party competitiveness.

February 5, 2020

PUBLIC INVITED TO MEETING ABOUT MISSOURI ROUTE 19 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT

The Missouri Department of Transportation is currently in the scoping process for a bridge replacement project on Missouri Route 19 over Interstate 70 at New Florence. A public meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 11 from 5:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at the Montgomery County Ambulance District Building located just off MO 19 north of New Florence. Representatives will have displays on hand to visit about the options that are being proposed, as well as the project recommendation. When bridge replacements are adjacent to an interchange area, the current and future needs related to traffic flow are reviewed to provide the best design to manage the area’s needs. This is an open-house style meeting, so individuals may stop by anytime in that time to visit with MoDOT representatives about the project. A construction schedule won’t be established until after the project is funded. In the event of inclement weather, the public meeting will be rescheduled.

TWO DEAD AFTER POSSIBLE MURDER SUICIDE IN COLUMBIA

A Moberly man and a Columbia woman are dead after what is believed to be a murder suicide in Columbia. Deputies from the Boone County Sheriff’s Department, Columbia Police, and State Highway Patrol Troopers were called to a report of shots fired in the 5100 block of North Creasy Springs Road at around 11:30 Monday night. Sheriff’s Deputies entered the home and had three shots fired at them, forcing them back out of the home. Just after midnight, flames were spotted inside the house and attempts to communicate with the residents were unsuccessful. At around 2:20 a.m. Tuesday, SWAT team members entered the home and found two bodies, later identified as 41 year old Stefan Dailing of Moberly and 39 year old Bobbie Jo Robinson of Columbia. The cause of death as well as the events of the evening were unclear and authorities are awaiting autopsy results.

MDC IS SEARCHING FOR PERSON THAT SHOT BALD EAGLE

Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) agents are looking for help from the public to locate the person responsible for the shooting of a bald eagle in northeast Missouri.

Investigators say the eagle was shot and killed one mile south of Adair, Missouri, along Oak Grove Way. Bullet fragments are evident in the X-rays taken of the bird.

If you have any information, you are asked to call Adair County Conservation Agent Kevin Powell at (660) 216-1389. If you notice a wildlife violation, report it to your local conservation agent or call Operation Game Thief at 1-800-392-1111.

February 4, 2020

MEXICO COUPLE HURT IN AUDRAIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Mexico couple was hurt in an accident that occurred at around 1am Tuesday in Audrain County. The patrol says that 23 year old Stephanie Bowden and her passenger 23 year old Troy Kysar were on Route O when their vehicle swerved to miss a deer, ran off the right side of the road, struck a small grove of trees and a bridge abutment. Both sustained minor injuries and were to seek medical treatment later.

TWO MEN INJURED IN MONDAY MORNING WRECK

Two Troy men were injured in a one-vehicle wreck Monday morning in Lincoln County. 60 year old Michael Swope was on Sugar Grove Road when the steering was lost in his truck, causing it to veer off the right side of the roadway and strike a tree. Both the driver and his passenger 40 year old Thomas Davis were taken to Mercy Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

FIRE AT TIGER VILLAGE APARTMENTS IN COLUMBIA

The Columbia Fire Department was dispatched to a commercial structure fire at 305 Tiger Lane, Tiger Village Apartments, apartment 122 at 1:56am on Sunday. The first unit arrived less than four minutes later and reported flames from a third floor balcony walkway. Crews deployed a pre-connected hose line and had the fire extinguished in approximately five minutes. The integrity of the walkway was compromised so the occupants of the third floor were relocated by apartment management. The fire department’s technical rescue truck was dispatched and used to provide temporary shoring for the walkway. The City’s Building and Site Development was also notified.
An Assistant Fire Marshal was dispatched to perform a fire origin and cause investigation. It was determined that the fire originated on the walkway in front of apartment 122. The cause is undetermined but improperly discarded smoking material cannot be ruled out. Damage is estimated at $20,000. Seven units from the Columbia Fire Department were dispatched to this call. There were no reported injuries.

LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS SUMMARY

. . . from the Best Broadcast Group Newsroom

February 3, 2020

CHIEFS BRING HOME THE WIN!!!!

For the first time in 50 years, the Kansas City Chiefs bring home the victory and are the 2020 Super Bowl Champions!!!!

HOMICIDE IN COLUMBIA EARLY SUNDAY MORNING AND AN ARREST HAS BEEN MADE

Columbia Police arrested Curtis Allen Lewis, 36, of Columbia in connection to the homicide of Treshawn E. Kitchen and the shooting of a 30-year-old female victim. Kitchen, 34, of Columbia was shot and killed around 2:35 a.m. Sunday morning in the area of 19 N. Fifth Street in Columbia. The female victim was also shot and sustained life-threatening injuries. Lewis was arrested on charges of voluntary manslaughter, second degree assault and two counts of armed criminal action. He has been remanded to the custody of Boone County Jail. Anyone with additional information about this incident is urged to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

COLUMBIA POLICE MAKE ARREST IN UNITED CREDIT UNION ROBBERY

Columbia Police arrested Deante Antonio Wilder, 19, of Jefferson City, in connection to an armed robbery at United Credit Union, located at 2909 Falling Leaf Lane in Columbia on Jan. 7^th, 2020. With assistance from an investigator for the Missouri Department of Revenue Compliance and Investigation Bureau and the Jefferson City Police Department, investigators followed a lead to Jefferson City as the possible location of Wilder, who was identified as the suspect. On Jan. 30, detectives from the Columbia Police Department charged Wilder with first-degree robbery and armed criminal action. He is currently remanded in the custody of the Cole County Jail. This is an ongoing investigation.

CALLAWAY COUNTY CRASH FRIDAY NIGHT INVOLVED TWO AREA RESIDENTS

The patrol said a wreck on Route B at Route A in Callaway County Sunday night at 6:50 PM involved a driver from Martinsburg and Auxvasse. The crash happened when 20 year old Hanna N. Knipp of Auxvasse slowed to make a turn and her vehicle was struck from behind by another auto driven by Gabriel R. Hale of Martinsburg. Knipp had minor injuries but was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.

DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

The deadline is quickly approaching for Missouri agriculture students interested in applying for the 2020 Missouri Corn Scholarship Program. High school and college students pursuing in a career in agronomy or other agriculture-related field must submit the necessary forms no later than Feb. 14 to be eligible for one of seven $1,000 scholarships sponsored by the Missouri Corn Growers Association and the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council. To learn more about Missouri Corn programs, please visit www.mocorn.org

January 31, 2020

CALL THE RIGHT PLAY: PLAN AHEAD FOR SUPER BOWL WEEKEND

For the first time in 50 years, Missouri’s very own Kansas City Chiefs are Miami bound for Super Bowl LIV. As you cheer on your home team this weekend, the only crash you should hope to hear is the crunch of football players colliding – not that of your vehicle into another. Throughout the weekend of February 2, there will be numerous Super Bowl celebrations happening across the state. Many of these celebrations may include alcohol. The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety urges football fans to get their game plan established ahead of time: plan a sober ride home.

MISSOURI GROUP CREATES PETITION FOR LEGALIZATION OF RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA

As Missouri ramps up toward the sale of medical marijuana, a new petition drive was launched Thursday aimed at making recreational marijuana legal, too.

A group called Missourians for a New Approach is gathering signatures to put the issue of adult-use marijuana on the November 2020 ballot.

The group said the effort is being supported by the same backers who helped pass the medical marijuana constitutional amendment in 2018.

To get on the ballot, the proposal must get 160,199 verified signatures that must be turned into the Missouri Secretary of State's office by May 3.

January 30, 2020

MISSOURI REPORTS LOWER OPIOD PRESCRIPTIONS

Opioid prescriptions are down significantly in Missouri's Medicaid health care program.
New figures show that the number of Medicaid participants receiving opioid prescriptions fell to fewer than 110,000 in 2019 - the second straight year with a 12% decline.
Meanwhile, the number of pills prescribed to those people fell by 25% last year.
State Medicaid Director Todd Richardson cites improved public awareness about the severity of the opioid crisis.
He also credits state policy changes that have limited many initial opioid prescriptions to seven days and have expanded treatment options for people dealing with pain.

MISSOURI TRAFFIC FATALITIES DROP FIVE PERCENT

Preliminary reporting for 2019 indicates Missouri traffic fatalities have dropped for the third year in a row. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 876 lives were lost in Missouri traffic crashes in 2019 down from 921 in 2018, a five percent reduction.

While the modest gains are encouraging, the state still has a long way to go in achieving the ultimate goal – zero traffic fatalities in Missouri.

Although there was an overall reduction in traffic fatalities, there were increases in motorcycle fatalities and pedestrian fatalities. In 2019, there were 118 motorcyclists killed, a 10 percent increase from the previous year. Likewise, there were 108 pedestrians killed in 2019 –the largest number of pedestrian fatalities in Missouri the past 10 years.

While weather and road conditions can come into play, traffic crashes are largely the result of someone simply making a poor decision, even if only for a moment. The top contributing factors of Missouri traffic fatalities continue to be lack of seat belt use, driving too fast, impairment, and distraction.

MSHP AIRCRAFT USE MAP OVERLAY TECHNOLOGY TO TRACK PURSUIT SUSPECTS SUCCESSFULLY

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to make the public aware of the following:
In July 2016, the Patrol’s Aircraft Division began using an infrared camera and map overlay system on a Bell 407 helicopter. The main purpose of the equipment was to perform search and rescue missions for lost or wanted subjects. When the equipment is not being used for these purposes, the Patrol has utilized the camera and mapping systems to assist law enforcement agencies across the state capture fleeing suspects, while ultimately increasing the safety to the motoring public, the officers, and the suspects. This method has proven to be very effective and impactful.
Applying this technology during an active pursuit, allows ground units to discontinue their active pursuit, slow down, and follow at a safe distance out of sight of the suspect. The aircraft tracks the fleeing vehicle, during either day or night conditions, and provides accurate turn-by-turn information to the ground units while recording the incident for evidentiary purposes. The map overlay provides the flight crew with street names, points of interests, and addresses. The suspect nearly always slows to a safer, more reasonable speed. Once the suspect comes to a stop, the air crew informs ground units who make contact with the occupants of the vehicle and affect an arrest.
Since July 2016, the Aircraft Division has assisted law enforcement agencies with 114 pursuits, and has tracked 103 successfully, which is a 90.36% success rate.

January 29, 2020

MEXICO FIRE RESULTS IN ARREST

On Monday at approximately 10:04AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 900 block of Union in reference to a fire. Responding personnel found a vacant house with smoke coming from it. Theodore L Lewis, age 54 of Mexico, was found in the garage. It was determined that Lewis had been staying in the garage and was burning household items for warmth. The fire was extinguished with no further damage being done to the house. It was determined Lewis had eight outstanding warrants from the Audrain County Circuit Court. He was arrested and taken to the Audrain County jail. There were no injuries from the incident.

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY ACCIDENT

A St. Charles woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 11:50pm Tuesday in St. Charles County. 23 year old Lynne Scotti was on Highway 370 when her truck traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck the concrete median wall. She was transported by ambulance to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in St. Charles with serious injuries.

MAN HURT IN TUESDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A man was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday afternoon in Osage County. The patrol says that 48 year old Tommy Brumett of Newburg, MO was on Route E when his vehicle ran off the right side of the road, he overcorrected, causing it to return to the roadway and overturn. He refused medical treatment at the scene for minor injuries.

January 28, 2020

FULTON WOMAN ACCUSED OF KILLING 80 YEAR OLD MOTHER

Officers in central Missouri have arrested a 62-year-old woman accused of killing her 80-year-old mother. The Fulton Sun reports that Callaway County sheriff's deputies found Friday the body of Frances Keel at a home in Guthrie, an unincorporated township about 10 miles southwest of Fulton. Investigators say the elderly woman had been stabbed several times, and deputies found a 9.5-inch knife in the home believed to be the murder weapon. Deputies soon arrested Keel's daughter, Lola Katherine Crews and prosecutors charged her Saturday with first-degree murder and armed criminal action. Family members of Crews told investigators she suffers from schizophrenia.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN JEFFERSON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A De Soto man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 6:15pm Monday in Jefferson County. 74 year old John Stuber was on Fountain City Road when his truck traveled off the left edge of the road and the front of it struck a utility pole. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital South with serious injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN MONDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Sedalia driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Cooper County. 66 year old Michael Pyne was eastbound on I-70 when he lost control of his vehicle in a curve, ran off the left side of the roadway and struck the median cables. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

January 27, 2020

TWO WOMEN HURT IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY ACCIDENT

Two women from O’Fallon, MO were hurt in an accident that occurred at 9am Sunday in St. Charles County. The patrol says that 62 year old Michelle Kiely was on Highway N when she failed to stop at a steady red signal and entered the intersection where her car was struck on the right side by a car driven by 30 year old Jennifer Llewellyn. Both women sustained minor injuries. Kiely was taken to Progress West Hospital while Llewellyn was taken to SSM Health in Lake St. Louis for treatment.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE TWO INCIDENTS

Columbia Police officers were dispatched to a report of an armed robbery at Domino’s Pizza, 1500 I-70 Dr. SW, on Jan. 26, at approximately 12:20 p.m.

The preliminary investigation revealed that three suspects entered the store and displayed handguns while demanding money. The suspects left the area with an undisclosed amount of cash. The Forensic Evidence Team assisted in collecting evidence. There were no injuries reported.

At approximately 12:26 p.m. officers were dispatched to a report of shots fired in the area of the 800 block of West Business Loop. Officers arrived and began canvassing the area and located a vehicle that was being driven by the victim in the parking lot of a nearby hotel. Officers observed damage to the vehicle caused by gunshots. There were no injuries reported. The suspect vehicle was described as a small red sedan with a rear spoiler and was last seen traveling eastbound on I-70. During the investigation, officers located contraband inside the victim’s vehicle. David Preston Clark, 31, of Columbia was arrested and charged for possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

These are ongoing investigations and no additional information can be provided at this time. Note: there is no evidence to suggest that the two incidents are connected. Anyone with information about either incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

Weekend Report- January 25-26, 2020

WOMAN INJURED IN FRIDAY MORNING WRECK

A Belle woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Friday morning in Osage County. 21 year old Breann Feltrop was on MO 89 when her vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway, became airborne over a ravine and struck a rock bluff. She was transported by ambulance to SSM St. Mary’s Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRIDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A driver was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 2pm Friday in Miller County. The patrol says that a driver from Chantilly, VA attempted a left turn onto US 54 from a crossover and failed to yield to a tractor trailer driven by 50 year old Anthony Candela of Cross Timbers, MO and Candela’s semi struck the freightliner before running off the right side of the road and ejecting him from it. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

JEFFERSON CITY MAN HURT IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A Jefferson City man was hurt in a Saturday afternoon crash in Boone County. 33 year old Tyson Schero was on US 63 when his car went off the roadway and struck the ground. He sustained minor injuries and was taken to University Hospital for treatment.

January 24, 2020

LOCAL POLICE ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS TO BE AWARE OF SOCIAL SECURITY SCAMS

Scams referencing the Social Security Administration are common.

The Kirksville Police Department has received several reports about citizens who have received letters from the Social Security Administration and threats to suspend benefits and garnish income.

The Federal Trade Commission cites scams mentioning the Social Security Administration as the number one type of fraud reported to their agency.

Those letters can come through the mail or via email.

According to the Social Security Administration, Social Security employees will occasionally contact you by telephone or mail for business purposes if you have ongoing business with the agency.

However, Social Security employees will not:

Tell you that your Social Security number has been suspended

Contact you to demand an immediate payment

Ask you for credit or debit card numbers over the phone

Require a specific means of debt repayment, like a prepaid debit card, a retail gift card, or cash

Demand that you pay a Social Security debt without the ability to appeal the amount you owe

Promise a Social Security benefit approval, or increase, in exchange for information or money

In addition to letters or email, a number of KTVO viewers have said that they have also received phone calls from individuals claiming to be with the Social Security Administration.

Scammers can even provide authentic appearing numbers such as 1-800 numbers that can seem legitimate.

MDC TO HOST EAGLE DAYS IN CLARKSVILLE THIS WEEKEND

Every winter, Missouri welcomes record numbers of bald eagles and boasts some of the most plentiful viewing areas in all of the lower 48 states. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encourages eagle-lovers of all ages to discover nature and get outdoors to view our nation’s most iconic raptor at the annual Eagle Days event in Clarksville. Activities will take place at Lock and Dam 24 and the Apple Shed Theater in Clarksville on Saturday, Jan. 25, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 26, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Eagle Days feature activities to entertain and educate the whole family. MDC will have spotting scopes set up at River Front Park where volunteers and event staff will help visitors view eagles and other migrating waterfowl.

At the Apple Shed Theater, MDC will offer hands-on exhibits and displays, children’s activities, and viewing of the MDC video Eagles in Missouri featuring past years’ Eagle Days events in Clarksville. Every hour on the hour, Dickerson Park Zoo, based in Springfield, will host a live-eagle program at the Apple Shed Theater. This building is not heated, so be sure to dress warmly.

“Eagle Days are a great way to enjoy nature in the winter and also a fun way to spend time as a family,” said MDC Conservation Educator Karen Armstrong. “Be sure to bundle up the family as temperatures can be chilly. Bring blankets and don’t forget your camera and binoculars.”

All events are free at Eagle Days in Clarksville. MDC hosts the annual celebration of winter wildlife watching in partnership with USACE, Dickerson Park Zoo, and the City of Clarksville.

Clarksville is located south of Louisiana on Missouri Highway 79.

January 23, 2020

UPDATE: PUBLIC INVITED TO MEETING ABOUT MISSOURI ROUTE 19 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY HAS BEEN POSRPONED

Due to the expected winter weather forecast, the informational public meeting on the Missouri Route 19 bridge over Interstate 70 at New Florence that was scheduled for Thursday, January 23 from 5:00-6:30 p.m., at the Montgomery County Ambulance District Building has been postponed until Tuesday, February 11. The time and location will remain the same.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A semi truck driver was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 6:15pm Wednesday in Montgomery County. The patrol says that 60 year old Michael Brown of Bardstown, KY was eastbound on I-70 when he drove off the right side of the roadway to avoid another vehicle, causing the tractor trailer to overturn and come to rest in a ditch. He was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.

TEEN HURT IN THURSDAY MORNING WRECK

A teen was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Thursday morning in Morgan County. 18 year old Trevor McCollum of Stover, MO was on MO 135 when his truck traveled off the left side of the road, struck a tree and overturned, coming to rest on its driver’s side. He was taken to Bothwell Regional Health Center for treatment of minor injuries.

January 22, 2020

UPDATE: PUBLIC INVITED TO MEETING ABOUT MISSOURI ROUTE 19 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY HAS BEEN POSRPONED

MURDER INVESTIGATION RESULTS IN TWO ARRESTS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrests of two people in connection with the 2017 murder of 29 year old Benjamin “Ben” Renick of New Florence. In the evening hours of June 8, 2017, the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office received a report of a deceased person at Renick’s Reptiles, in New Florence. Upon their arrival, deputies discovered a male subject, later identified as Benjamin Renick, deceased in the building. An examination of the body revealed that Renick had died from a gunshot wound. Investigators from the Troop F Division of Drug and Crime Control and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office began a joint homicide investigation. On January 16, 2020, 31 year old Lynlee J. Renick and 35 year old Michael K. Humphrey were arrested by investigators as a result of the investigation. Renick was arrested at 12:01 p.m., at a residence in Columbia, Missouri, and Humphrey was arrested at 6:45 p.m. at a residence in Jefferson City. Both subjects were taken into custody without incident. Renick and Humphrey are being held without bond in the Montgomery County Jail on charges of first-degree murder and armed criminal action.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Thursday, January 16 at approximately 9:05AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 2000 block of W Boulevard in reference to a crash involving a truck and train. Responding personnel found that Gary P Riedel, age 75 of Centralia, was driving a 1992 Chevrolet grain truck eastbound on Boulevard, when he attempted to go around an Ozark Valley Railroad truck which was stopped at the crossing attempting to stop traffic due to an approaching train. Riedel did not see the train, which was already slowing as it reached the crossing, and his vehicle was struck before the train was able to stop. The Chevrolet and one train car were damaged, but there were no injuries from the incident.

January 21, 2020

SHOOTING LEAVES TWO DEAD AND AT LEAST 15 INJURED IN KANSAS CITY

Police in Kansas City, Missouri, say at least two people are dead and upwards of a dozen people may have been injured in a shooting outside a bar. Police say the shooting took place just before midnight, when someone opened fire on a line of people waiting outside. A man and a woman were found dead at the scene. Police believe the man was the shooter, who was shot by an armed security guard. At least 15 people arrived at local hospitals with injuries and three are in critical condition.
The bar appeared to be celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs' advancement to the Super Bowl.

TWO NEMO TEENS INJURED IN MONDAY ACCIDENT

Two Northeast Missouri teenagers were injured in an accident in Boone County Monday. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 17 year old Elisabeth Fugeat was southbound on U.S. Highway 63 at the Missouri 22 interchange at around 12:40 p.m. Monday when she drove off the left side of the road and struck a guard rail. Two passengers in Fugeat’s vehicle, a 16 year old female from Macon and a 13 year old female from Shelbina, were taken by ambulance to Women and Children’s Hospital in Columbia. Fugeat was not injured.

2019-2020 OFFICIAL MANUEL IS ONLINE

Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft unveiled the online 2019-2020 Official Manual, also called the “Blue Book,” Tuesday. Commemorating the 100^th anniversary of the ratification of the 19^th amendment giving women the right to vote, Ashcroft sought out female legislators to provide their thoughts on the significance of the amendment. These quotes appear throughout the book, which can be found online at https://www.sos.mo.gov/bluebook/2019-2020.

The 2019-2020 Official Manual will be published at a later date and made available for purchase.

January 20, 2020

MAN ACCUSED OF FIRING SHOTS IN COLUMBIA WALMART

An 18-year-old man has been arrested after police say he fired shots inside a central Missouri Walmart.

Columbia Police say the shooting happened late Friday night after an employee confronted a man, later identified by police as Jamie Anton Jackson, who was in a restricted area of the store.

The Missourian reports that the employee told police the man had a gun and extended ammunition magazine and a struggle ensued.

The employee said he was able to take the magazine away, but not the gun. Police say Jackson then ran to the front of the store and fired multiple shots. No one was injured.

DUCK BOAT OWNER SETTLES IN SINKING LAWSUIT

The owner of a tourist duck boat that sank in a Missouri lake, killing 17 people, has settled its final pending lawsuit for an undisclosed amount.

Thirty-one lawsuits have been filed against Ripley Entertainment since the former World War II amphibious vehicle sank in July 2018 at Table Rock Lake near Branson.

A joint motion for approval of a confidential settlement was filed Thursday in the final pending suit, which was filed by Joseph and William Strecker.

Their 68-year-old mother, Rosemarie Hamann, was killed when the boat sank.

A Ripley spokeswoman declined to discuss details of the settlement.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS CLOSED STATEWIDE ON MONDAY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following date:

Monday, January 20, 2020, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, January 21, 2020.

Weekend Report- January 18-19, 2020

DRIVER KILLED, PASSENGERS INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

A driver was killed and his two passengers were injured, one seriously in a one-vehicle wreck early Saturday morning in Franklin County. The patrol says that 24 year old Vance McMillan of Bourbon, MO was eastbound on I-44 when his car began to exit at the 225 exit ramp, started to skid, ran off the left side of the road, struck a tree and then struck a culvert and overturned. He was pronounced dead at the scene, while one of his passenger’s 22 year old Samuel Cool of Leasburg, MO was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries and the other passenger 21 year old Thomas Edmond of Sullivan, MO was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for treatment of moderate injuries.

MAN INJURED IN GASCONADE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was injured in an accident that occurred at 2:25pm Saturday in Gasconade County. 38 year old Corey Vitt of Bland, MO was on Route V when his car traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of moderate injuries.

MAN HURT IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A Wentzville man was hurt in an early Saturday morning crash in St. Charles County. 59 year old William Noel was westbound on I-70 when his truck traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck the concrete barrier, returned to the road then went off the left side again, struck the concrete barrier twice and overturned. He sustained moderate injuries and was taken to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles for treatment.

January 17, 2020

JEFFERSON CITY MAN SENTENCED FOR BOMBING FORMER SPOUSE’S VEHICLE

31 year old Dean Allen McBaine of Jefferson City, MO, was sentenced to 60 months in prison following his conviction by a jury in October for one count of possessing an unregistered destructive device. McBaine appeared before U.S. District Court Judge Audrey G. Fleissig who ordered McBaine to pay restitution in the amount of $34,705.21.

According to testimony at trial, he was involved in a domestic dispute with his current wife at their residence in Jefferson City. During the incident, McBaine discharged several rounds from a handgun into the bedroom where his then 13-year-old son was sleeping. Consequently, McBaine’s former spouse and mother of the boy retrieved him from Jefferson City and moved him to her home in St. Louis. Orders of protection against McBaine were issued for the former spouse and son.

Approximately three weeks later, on September 2, 2018 in St. Louis City, an explosion that also damaged two adjacent homes destroyed the former spouse’s red Mini Cooper automobile.

The co-defendant, Michael Bushman, pled guilty and was sentenced on November 22, 2019 to 13 months in prison. Bushman admitted to preparing a “sparkler bomb” with McBaine and detonating it under the vehicle in the victim’s driveway. A neighbor’s security camera system captured the explosion.

The case was investigated by the Metropolitan St. Louis Police Department, the St. Louis Fire Department and the St. Louis division of the FBI. The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys John Davis and Paul D’Agrosa.

ILLINOIS WOMAN INJURED IN BOONE COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Steelville, Illinois woman was injured in a two-vehicle accident in Boone County Wednesday evening. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 39 year old Lukas Romine of Centralia was entering U.S. Highway 63 northbound from the median crossover at Highway 124 at around 8 p.m. As Romine was entering the highway, his vehicle was struck by a car driven by 37 year old Angela Murrell of Linneus. According to the highway patrol crash report, the crash was enough to total both vehicles. A passenger in Romine’s vehicle, 71 year old Mary Waltemate was taken by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of minor injuries. The two drivers were not injured.

AUTHORITIES ASKING FOR PUBLIC HELP IN LOCATING MISSING KIRKSVILLE TEEN

Authorities need your help locating a missing juvenile. James Owen Warren, 15, of Kirksville, was last seen by his family on January 1, 2020. A missing person report was taken by the Adair County Sheriff's Office a short time after he went missing. He is described as a white male, 5'6" and weighs 130 lbs. He has dark blond hair and hazel eyes. Warren's mother, Susan Kimble Wilson, told KTVO he was last seen wearing a KC Royals hoodie and jeans, but it's believed he may have taken some clothes with him. The Missouri State Highway Patrol had issued an Active Missing Persons Alert for Warren. Anybody with information about his whereabouts can contact their local law enforcement agency or Kirksville Central Dispatch at (660) 665-5621.

January 16, 2020

MAN INJURED IN JEFFERSON COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Pevely man was injured in an accident that occurred at around 7:25pm Wednesday in Jefferson County. The patrol says that 69 year old William Sebree was riding his motorcycle on US 61 when it ran off the right side of the roadway, he laid the bike down and slid into a creek. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of moderate injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY THURSDAY MORNING WRECK

A St. Charles driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Thursday morning in St. Charles County. 23 year old Rios Vasquez was on Veterans Memorial Parkway when he failed to negotiate a turn and his truck struck a guardrail. He sustained minor injuries and was taken to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles for treatment.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday at approximately 8:54AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 3600 block of S Clark in reference to a business that had been broken into during the previous overnight hours. Investigation indicated that the suspect(s) forced their way through the front door causing damage, and then damaged another door inside the business in a failed attempt to get it open. Nothing was stolen during the incident. Anyone with information about this or any other crime is asked to contact CRIMESTOPPERS at (800) 392-TIPS or (800) 392-8477 Mexico Public Safety at (573) 473-5800 or (573) 581-2100.

January 15, 2020

MEXICO WOMAN KILLED IN CALLAWAY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Mexico woman was killed in an accident that occurred at around 1:40pm Tuesday in Callaway County. The patrol says that 39 year old Nicki Nation was on US 54 when her vehicle ran into the rear of a freightliner driven by 34 year old Aaron Shirley of Fulton. After impact both vehicles came to rest off the roadway. She was taken to University Hospital in Columbia where she died from her injuries a short time later.

MAN INJURED IN TUESDAY NIGHT WRECK

A Florissant man was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Jefferson County. 31 year old Matthew Huffman was merging from Old Highway 21 onto northbound Highway 21 when his car ran off the left side of the road and struck a tree. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of moderate injuries.

PUBLIC INVITED TO MEETING ABOUT MISSOURI ROUTE 19 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT

The Missouri Department of Transportation is currently in the scoping process for a bridge replacement project on Missouri Route 19 over Interstate 70 at New Florence. A public meeting will be held on Thursday, January 23 from 5:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at the Montgomery County Ambulance District Building located just off MO 19 north of New Florence. Representatives will have displays on hand to visit about the options that are being proposed, as well as the project recommendation. When bridge replacements are adjacent to an interchange area, the current and future needs related to traffic flow are reviewed to provide the best design to manage the area’s needs. This is an open-house style meeting, so individuals may stop by anytime in that time to visit with MoDOT representatives about the project. A construction schedule won’t be established until after the project is funded. In the event of inclement weather, the public meeting will be rescheduled.

January 14, 2020

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MONDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 11:55pm Monday in St. Louis County. The patrol says that 56 year old Shelly Lawless of Pacific, MO was northbound on I-270 when her truck ran off the left side of the roadway, struck the concrete traffic barrier and began rotating and then it struck the concrete barrier a second time. She was taken to SSM Health DePaul Hospital with serious injuries.

TWO HURT IN PIKE COUNTY WRECK

Two people from Clarksville were hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Pike County. 19 year old Kaylea McGuire was on Highway 79 when her vehicle traveled off the right side of the road and overturned. Both the driver and her passenger 51 year old Kennet McGuire were transported by ambulance to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

As significant winter weather moved through Missouri from Friday, January 10 through Sunday, January 12, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to three incidents of vehicles crashing due to weather conditions. There were no injuries from any of the incidents.

January 13, 2020

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Thursday at approximately 5:18PM the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 800 block of W. Monroe in reference to a carport on fire. Responding personnel found the carport burning, with the fire spreading to an adjacent home and privacy fence as well as to a nearby tree and a neighboring carport. The fire was contained and extinguished in that area with the carport being a complete loss and the other structures suffering a small amount of fire damage.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation and there were no injuries from the incident.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE TWO WEEKEND SHOOTINGS

On Friday, Jan. 10, at approximately 1:03 a.m., on duty officers heard gunshots and witnessed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed near Highland Drive. Suspects failed to stop after officers activated emergency lights and sirens. Shortly after their pursuit of the vehicle, officers received calls from Boone County Joint Communications to report shots fired in the area.

Both the driver and passenger exited the vehicle in the 2500 block of Providence Road and continued to flee on foot. Both were located and detained for further questioning.

Officers also responded to the 100 block of Garth Avenue at approximately 4:22 a.m. to a report of a burglary in progress. While en route, officers were notified shots had been fired. Officers received a call about a potential suspect at the hospital with a gunshot wound and determined he may have been connected to the burglary. Two suspects were detained. After further investigation, Columbia Police identified Derail J. Thomas, 28, of Columbia as the second suspect in the burglary that occurred in the 100 block of Garth Avenue. Thomas has been charged with first degree burglary, first degree assault and armed criminal action.

Two other suspects were arrested in association with the overnight shooting near Highland Drive in Columbia. Larry K. Brownlee Jr., 25, and Daravion Fajardo, 25, of Columbia were both charged with resisting arrest for a felony.

CPD has identified Julian J. Shumpert,18, of Columbia as one of the suspects involved in the burglary that occurred in the 100 block of Garth Avenue. Shumpert has been charged with first degree burglary, armed criminal action, first degree assault and possession of a controlled substance as a misdemeanor.

Weekend Report- January 11-12, 2020

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 9pm Saturday in Franklin County. The patrol says that 34 year old Jeffrey Oliver of Dittmer, MO was on Highway 30 and driving too fast for road conditions when his truck traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a utility pole. He was taken to SSM Health St. Clare Hospital with serious injuries.

WOMAN KILLED IN FRIDAY NIGHT WRECK

A St. Charles woman was killed in a one-vehicle wreck Friday night in Lincoln County. 20 year old Jennelle Wulfmeier was a passenger in a truck driven by 21 year old Cole McCall of St. Charles. The report states that they were on South 7th Street in Elsberry at a high rate of speed when he failed to stop at the end of the road, causing the truck to run off the roadway, hit the levee, became airborne and landed in a flooded creek. The driver was able to get out of his truck and fled on foot, meanwhile his passenger was not able to get out and it became submerged with her inside of the truck. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

DRIVER HURT IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY CRASH

A driver was hurt in a Friday night crash in St. Charles County. 43 year old Steven Page of O’Fallon, MO was eastbound on I-70 when his car ran off the right side of the road and struck a guardrail. He was transported by ambulance to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles for treatment of minor injuries.

January 10, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE ARREST COLUMBIA MAN FOR BURGLARY

On Jan. 7, at approximately 4:30 p.m., Columbia Police officers attempted to stop a suspect for a lane violation on Ballenger Lane. The suspect failed to stop, resulting in a police pursuit.
The officers followed the vehicle to Hinkson Creek Rd., and then to a private drive, north, off Hinkson before Wyatt Lane. Officers identified the suspect as Zachary Bradley, 23, of Columbia.
During the pursuit, the suspect exited the vehicle and continued to flee on foot. CPD was assisted by the Boone County Sheriff’s Department, who assisted with the apprehension of the suspect. Bradley was charged with second degree burglary, tampering with a motor vehicle in the first degree and resisting arrest.
While in custody, CPD learned the suspect’s vehicle was connected to a reported burglary by Hertz Car Rental, located at 1905 Rangeline St. (Case number 2020-000169) on Monday, Jan. 6. The officers also identified a Nissan Sentra fob on the suspect, which is also connected to that case.
Hertz Car Rental identified the Chevrolet Malibu that the suspect was driving, a Silver Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Accent and a 2019 White Jeep Cherokee, Texas plate LTV8616, as the vehicles that were stolen. CPD believes the suspect did not act alone.
This is an active investigation and no further information is available at this time.
Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

GRASS FIRE IN SCHUYLER COUNTY DEEMED SUSPICIOUS

Whipping winds fanned the flames of a suspicious late-morning grass fire in Schuyler County.

The blaze was reported just before 11:30 a.m. Thursday along Route M, one mile north of Glenwood, Missouri.

Captain Laura Watson with Lancaster Fire and Rescue told KTVO the land is owned by Laverne Kramer.

The Schuyler County Sheriff's Office said the blaze appears to have started along the roadway. Watson said it is considered suspicious because, in addition to the main fire, crews found two other burn areas on the same property that did not spark and take off.

The flames, pushed across the field by strong winds, charred an estimated 35 acres before firefighters got them put out about 45 minutes later.

Eight personnel from Lancaster Fire and Rescue and Queen City Fire Department battled the blaze with leaf blowers and water backpacks.

Watson said the investigation is being turned over to the Schuyler County Sheriff's Office.

She said she was not aware of anyone who had witnessed suspicious activity in the area around the time of the fires.

January 9, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTEGATE TUESDAY AFTERNOON ROBBERY

Columbia Police responded to a report of an armed robbery at United Credit Union, 2909 Falling Leaf Lane, on Jan. 7, at approximately 4:40 p.m. One suspect, described as a medium build black male, between 5 feet 10 inches to 6 feet, wearing blue jeans and a hoodie covering his face, entered the bank and displayed a handgun. He then left the area traveling west on Falling Leaf Lane in a dark-colored 4-door sedan with an undisclosed amount of cash. There were no injuries reported.
This is an ongoing investigation, therefore there is no additional information available at this time. Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

MONROE COUNTY COVERED BRIDGE VANDALIZED

Missouri State Park Rangers are looking for the public's help in identifying suspects involved in the recent vandalism of a historic covered bridge in northeast Missouri.

Corporal Doug Buie with the Missouri Park Rangers confirmed with KHQA that three people were caught on camera and are currently wanted in connection with vandalism that happened around 3:30 p.m. on December 31, 2019. The vandalism was discovered on January 2, 2020. The vandals damaged the historic Union Covered Bridge in Monroe County, Missouri, which is located about eight miles from Paris, Missouri.

The vandals left four signatures on the bridge: Bryce 2015, Bryce 2020, Chris 2015 and Chris 2020.

If you have any information regarding the bridge vandalism or can identify the suspects in the photos, contact Corporal Buie at (573) 565-3440.

MISSOURI TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR IDEA FUNDS

Missouri Technology Corporation is now accepting applications for funds to help launch and grow high-tech startups headquartered in Missouri through Missouri IDEA (Innovation, Development, and Entrepreneurship Advancement) Funds. Missouri IDEA Funds are a co-investment opportunity that promotes the formation and growth of businesses that engage in the transfer of science and technology into job creation. The funds provide financing to eligible businesses through four components that correspond to the four stages of growth for investment-grade, high-growth enterprises. The application deadline for IDEA Funds is November 14, 2020.

January 8, 2020

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOTS FIRED REPORT MONDAY NIGHT

Columbia Police officers responded to a call regarding shots fired near the intersection of Oak and Lincoln Drive, on Monday, Jan. 6, at approximately 10:45 p.m.

Officers immediately began canvassing the area for evidence and located a 24-year-old male near Jewell Ave. and Sexton Rd., who had sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. The victim was transported to a local emergency room by ambulance to be treated for his injuries.

While on the scene, officers were notified of reports that more shots were heard nearby and immediately responded. During the investigation, officers located evidence of gunshots including spent shell cases along with damage to two residences in the 400 block of Oak Street that were struck by bullets. No injuries were reported by the residents.

This case falls under the purview of the City’s newly created Violent Crime Task Force, which includes officers from CPD, Boone County Sheriff’s Department, University of Missouri Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The Violent Crime Task Force will review any incidence of violence that involves a firearm and will be working in conjunction with partnering agencies to resolve these cases.

No suspect information or further details are known about either incidence. This is an ongoing investigation, therefore there is no additional information we can provide.

NEMO MAN INJURED AFTER TREE FALLS ON HIM

A northeast Missouri man was seriously hurt late Tuesday morning when a tree fell on him.

The tragedy happened around 11 a.m. near a home on Sidney Road northeast of Green Castle, Missouri.

The family identifies the victim as Randy Ballanger, 53, who lives at the residence.

A family member at the scene said Ballanger was cutting firewood in the timber near his home when a tree fell on him.

Ballanger had his cell phone with him and was able to call 911, reporting that he had possibly broken his back.

The man somehow managed to get the tree off of him, get onto a UTV and drive himself to his house.

Ballanger was inside the home when emergency crews arrived.

Medical personnel then loaded him into an ambulance and drove him a short distance down the road to an open field where a medical helicopter was waiting for him.

They carefully loaded him onto the chopper and took off a short time later.

Officials said Ballanger was being flown to St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City for treatment.

January 7, 2020

FULTON POLICE DEPARTMENT OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTING

On December 30, 2019, at approximately 10 a.m., the Fulton Police Department attempted to stop a vehicle for reported suspicious activity in the 700 block of Hickman Avenue. The vehicle initially fled. After a short pursuit, the Fulton police officer exited his patrol vehicle and was on foot attempting to contact the driver when the vehicle accelerated toward him. The officer discharged his service weapon. The 25-year old male driver, Cody L. McCaulou, of Columbia, Missouri, sustained serious injuries and was transported to University Hospital, in Columbia. The police officer and two female occupants of the pursued vehicle were not injured.

On December 31, 2019, at 4:15 p.m., McCaulou was pronounced deceased at University Hospital. An autopsy was completed on January 2, 2020, and the results of the examination are pending.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control is continuing to investigate the incident. At the request of the Callaway County Prosecuting Attorney, who recused himself from the matter, a special prosecutor has been appointed by the Circuit Court of Callaway County to review the matter and determine whether any criminal charges are warranted from the incident.

2020 NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION ACT APPLICATION NOW AVAILABLE

The 2020 Neighborhood Preservation Act application cycle is now open. Applications are being accepted now and must be postmarked no later than February 15, 2020.

Administered by the Department of Economic Development, the Neighborhood Preservation Act is a tax credit program created to aid in the rehabilitation and new construction of home in certain census blocks in Missouri.

Qualifying areas include "distressed communities," as defined in 135.530 RSMo, and eligible applicants are defined as any taxpayer who incurs eligible costs for a new residence or rehabilitates a residence for owner occupancy that is located in a designed area.

January 6, 2020

TROY WOMAN KILLED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Troy woman was killed in an accident that occurred at 6:25pm Sunday in St. Charles County. The patrol says that 73 year old Anna Twellmann was on US 61 when she suffered a medical emergency, causing her car to travel off the left side of the roadway, returned to the road, went off the right side of the road, struck a rock bluff and overturned. She was taken to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis where she died from her injuries a short time later.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY NIGHT WRECK

A driver was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday night in St. Louis County. 21 year old Walker Gottman of High Ridge, MO was on Old Sugar Creek Road when his car ran off the right side of the road and overturned. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital South with serious injuries.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATES SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE REPORT AND FINDS STOLEN VEHICLE

Columbia Police officers were called to the 2100 block of Sunborough Drive regarding a suspicious vehicle and two suspicious individuals at approximately 10:20 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 5.

Officers arrived in the area and located the vehicle unoccupied. It was learned the vehicle had been reported stolen out of La Plata County, Colorado. Officers contacted the Durango, Colorado Police Department and learned two suspects were associated with the stolen vehicle; Stephen A. Goupil, 33, of Denver, Colorado and Erin A. Bradley, 27 of Ignacio, Colorado. Goupil was classified as armed and dangerous.

Officers canvassed the area and obtained good descriptions of the two individuals seen exiting the vehicle. A Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper located Goupil near Broadway and Hwy ZZ (Strawn Road) where he was taken into custody without incident for charges from Colorado of parole violation and kidnapping and on local charges for tampering with a motor vehicle in the first degree, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Officers were able to locate Bradley at a residence in the 1300 block of S. Mesa Drive where she was taken into custody without incident. Bradley was arrested on local charges for tampering with a motor vehicle in the second degree, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Columbia Police appreciate the assistance from Missouri State Highway Patrol, Boone County Fire Protection District and University of Missouri Police Department.

Columbia Police Chief Geoff Jones thanks the resident who saw something suspicious and called for law enforcement to investigate.

COLUMBIA POLICE ARREST KENTUCKY MAN AFTER HE BARRICADES HIMSELF INSIDE HOME

Columbia Police arrested Lucas W. Garner, 38, of Kentucky after learning he had an active warrant in Boone County in relation to an assault that occurred in January 2001 (CPD case number: 2001-001199), as well as three active warrants from Kentucky. Officers went to a residence in the 400 block of Hickman Ave. on Saturday, Jan. 4, to serve an arrest warrant.

The initial investigation began after a vehicle fled a traffic stop on Dec. 19. Through the extensive work of CPD patrol officers, a vehicle matching the description of the vehicle that fled the traffic stop was located outside of a residence in the 400 block of Hickman Ave. on Dec. 27. While conducting the investigation they were able to determine that the owner of the vehicle had warrants from Kentucky. On Jan. 4 officers conducted a surveillance of the residence and observed a person matching the description of the person wanted from Kentucky entering the residence.

After officers arrived at the residence on Hickman Ave. to serve the warrant on Jan. 4, Garner refused to exit the residence and barricaded himself inside. Officers learned that there were other family members inside the residence, but were not being held hostage. Garner surrendered approximately two hours after CPD made initial contact and was taken into custody without incident. The Columbia Police Crisis Negotiation Team, K-9 unit and SWAT assisted patrol officers at the scene.

Garner was arrested for the outstanding Boone County warrant for domestic assault, resisting arrest and three outstanding warrants from Kentucky for trafficking narcotics, endangering the welfare of a child and felony possession.

Any questions regarding the Kentucky case should be directed towards Monticello Police or Wayne County Kentucky Sheriff’s Department.

Weekend Report- January 4-5, 2020

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SATURDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 10:20pm Saturday in Jefferson County. The patrol says that 39 year old James Brown of Newdale, Idaho was southbound on I-55 ramp and attempted to exit on US 67 while driving too fast for conditions when his semi traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

DRIVER KILLED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY WRECK

A St. Louis driver was killed in a one-vehicle wreck Friday afternoon in St. Charles County. 41 year old Broderick Ford was westbound on I-70 when he lost control of his car and it ran off the right side of the road, overturned multiple times before the rear struck a tree. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

WOMAN HURT IN FRIDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A woman was hurt in a Friday afternoon crash in St. Louis County. 50 year old Robin Brenner of High Ridge, MO was on Highway PP when her car traveled off the right side of the road, hit a pole and overturned. She was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of minor injuries.

January 3, 2020

MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL REPORTS NO TRAFFIC FATALITIES OVER NEW YEARS COUNTING PERIOD

On Thursday, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that no one died in a traffic crash during the 2020 New Year’s holiday counting period, which lasted 30 hours.
Last year, there were 11 fatalities during the much longer 102-hour counting period.
The 2020 New Year’s counting period ran from 6 p.m., Tuesday, December 31, 2019, through 11:59 p.m., Wednesday, January 1, 2020.

During the holiday counting period, troopers investigated the following:

Crashes 72

Injuries 34

Fatalities 0

DWI 56

During the 2019 New Year’s counting period, there were 1,301 traffic crashes, which included 447 injured and 11 fatalities. Troopers made 130 arrests for driving while impaired during the 2019 New Year’s holiday. There were no boating crashes. No one drowned over the 2019 New Year’s counting period.

FORMER SCHUYLER COUNTY RESIDENT AMONG MISSING CREW MEMBERS ON CRABBING BOAT, SEARCH SUSPENDED

A northeast Missouri native is one of five fishermen missing and presumed dead after their 130-foot crabbing vessel sank on New Year's Eve off the Alaska peninsula.

The search for Brock Rainey, a former Schuyler County, Missouri, resident, and four other missing fishermen from Seattle-based ‘Scandies Rose’ has been suspended after crews spent more than 20 hours covering 1,400 square miles by boat, plane and helicopter the U.S. Coast Guard announced Wednesday night.
Rainey, who was most recently living in Kellogg, Idaho, announced on his Facebook page December 26, 2019, that he was flying from Indianapolis, where his girlfriend lives, to Kodiak, Alaska.

In a statement, the Coast Guard said “After exhausting all leads and careful consideration of survival probability, the Coast Guard suspends an active search pending new information or developments.”

What caused the crabbing vessel to sink is unknown at this time.

January 2, 2020

AUTHORITIES ID BODY FOUND IN MISSOURI RIVER TRUCK

Authorities have confirmed that a body found inside a truck pulled from the Missouri River in eastern Missouri was that of a 22-year-old man who had been missing since July. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that dental records confirmed the identity of Nathaniel Ashby of Warrenton. The truck was pulled from the river near Treolar on Sunday. The pickup was detected in August when a fire department performed a training exercise on the river using sonar equipment. Persistent rain kept the river level too high and the current too fast for divers to retrieve the truck until Sunday.

MIKE PARSON CONFIRMS MISSOURI WILL ALLOW REFUGEES

Gov. Mike Parson says Missouri will consent to taking in lawfully admitted refugees.

Parson announced his decision Tuesday in response to an executive order issued in September by President Donald Trump that required governors to publicly agree to accept refugees.

Refugees would not be allowed to automatically come to states where governors refuse consent, even if cities and counties welcome them.

Parson said in a statement that Missouri would agree to continue to resettle lawfully admitted refugees in communities that request them.

He noted the state has a long history of refugee resettlement and many former refugees have become vital members of their communities.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOTS FIRED REPORT ON PARIS ROAD

Columbia Police officers responded to the 2700 block of Paris Road in reference to reports of shots fired at approximately 11:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Officers arrived and immediately began canvassing the area for evidence. During the investigation, officers located one victim who sustained life-threatening gunshot wounds and was transported to a local emergency room for advanced medical treatment. Columbia Police, with the assistance of a CPD K-9 began searching for any suspect(s) involved. No suspect(s) was located. At this time there is no description of the suspect to provide. Detectives are actively investigating this incident. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

December 31, 2019

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday, December 24, 2019, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1900 block of Lakeview Rd. in reference to a church being burglarized during the previous 48 hours. Information from alert citizens led to officers identifying two people involved in the burglary and other related crimes. On Friday, December 27, 2019, Christopher S Zalucky, age 25, and Phillip J Sledge, age 31, both of Mexico, were arrested for their involvement. Both were processed at MPSD and released pending formal charges by the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney.

On Sunday, 12/29/19 at approximately 6:17AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to Murphy’s Oil in the 4800 block of S Clark Street in reference to a gasoline spill. Responding personnel learned that when gasoline was being delivered a few gallons spilled onto the concrete. Staff from Murphy’s Oil worked with personnel from Mexico Public Safety to clean the spill. There was no indication on scene that the gasoline entered the storm drains and there was not a time there was an apparent safety hazard.

JEFFERSON CITY WOMAN KILLED IN MONDAY ACCIDENT

A Jefferson City woman is dead after an accident on U.S. Highway 54 Monday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 68 year old Pamela Carsten of Jefferson City was eastbound on U.S. Highway 54 at around 11:50 a.m. Monday when her car traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree. Carsten was taken by MU Air Care to University Hospital in Columbia where she was pronounced dead.

December 30, 2019

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOTS FIRED SUNDAY ON RALEIGH DRIVE

Columbia Police responded to a report of shots heard Sunday, Dec. 29 at approximately 6:00 a.m. in the 1500 block of Raleigh Drive.

Officers arrived and immediately began canvassing the area for evidence and several shell casings were found. During the investigation officers did not locate anyone with injuries or confirm any property damage. Broken glass was found in the street suggesting that a car might have been struck, however it was not located. All area hospital emergency departments were notified; none reported treating any gunshot wound victims.

While conducting the investigation for the shots fired call, probable cause was established to request and serve a search warrant at a residence in the 1500 block of Raleigh Drive. E’Kayleon Spain-Prince, 18, of Columbia was arrested on multiple charges. A complete list of charges was not available at the time this press release was published.

The shots fired call remains an active investigation and no additional information is available.

Columbia Police are asking for your help. Anyone with information about this incident, please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or Crimestoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

OFFICIALS GRANT MARIJUANA LICENSE TO MACON COMPANY

Missouri officials have granted licenses to 60 of the more than 500 companies that applied to grow marijuana for the state's fledgling medical cannabis industry.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services announced the winning applicants Thursday, just days after the state awarded licenses to companies seeking to transport cannabis products. Testing facilities were licensed earlier this month. One of the companies approved was Agri-Genesis LLC. The Macon-based company had three applications approved. The Associated Press reports that the other winners included Blue Arrow Holdings LLC, a newly formed company that plans to retrofit a building in the long-shuttered Lempt Brewery complex in St. Louis to grow cannabis indoors.

Weekend Report- December 28-29, 2019

TROY WOMAN KILLED IN CHRISTMAS NIGHT CRASH

A Troy woman was killed in a Christmas night crash in Lincoln County. 32 year old Elizabeth Rutledge was on Route H when her vehicle traveled off the right side of the road, she overcorrected, returned to the road and overturned and was ejected from it. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

DRIVER INJURED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY ACCIDENT

A St. Peters driver was injured in an accident that occurred at 9:35pm Saturday in St. Charles County. The patrol says that 32 year old Aleksamdra Kolson was westbound on I-70 when she lost control and her car ran off the left side of the road and struck the concrete median barrier. She was transported by ambulance to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Peters for treatment of minor injuries.

MAN HURT IN JEFFERSON COUNTY WRECK

A man was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Friday afternoon in Jefferson County. 37 year old Joseph Kozemczak of Bonne Terre was on US 67 when his car traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck the cable barriers and a sign, then reentered the road and overturned. He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment.

December 27, 2019

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday at 3:50 pm, Mexico Public Safety Department was called to the 1900 block of Lakeview regarding a reported burglary. They found that the suspect entered the building and gained access to the office sometime between Sunday and the time of discovery. An amount of cash was taken. The investigation is continuing. Anyone with any information is encouraged to call Mexico Public Safety or Audrain Area Crime Stoppers.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE ATTEMPTED ROBBERY AT COMMERCE BANK

Columbia Police responded to a report of an attempted robbery at Commerce Bank, 2000 Bernadette Drive on Thursday at approximately 10:15 a.m. The preliminary investigation revealed that a single suspect entered the bank requesting an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspect was described as a white male, around 20 years old. He was last observed wearing a black jacket, a white shirt and blue jeans. He was described as wearing glasses, having short curly hair and having moles on his face. The suspect was identified as River Reed Godfrey, 20, of Independence, Missouri, and was taken into custody for attempted robbery by the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) and Callaway County Sheriff’s Department in the 3000 block of County Road 211 in Kingdom City, Missouri. Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL RELEASES HOLIDAY TRAFFIC NUMBERS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports two people died in traffic crashes during the 30-hour 2019 Christmas holiday counting period. The 2019 Christmas counting period ran from 6 p.m., Tuesday, December 24, 2019, through 11:59 p.m., Wednesday, December 25, 2019.

2019 Christmas Holiday Traffic Statistics:

Troopers investigated the following:
Traffic Crashes ― 91
Traffic Crash Injuries ― 23
Traffic Crash Fatalities ― 2
DWI ― 18

There were no boating crashes or drownings over the 2019 Christmas holiday counting period.
Both fatalities occurred in the Troop C, Weldon Spring, area, on Christmas Day, December 25, 2019.

December 26, 2019

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE ROBBERY AT APARTMENT BUILDING

Columbia Police officers were dispatched to a report of an armed robbery at Campus View apartments on Tuesday, Dec. 24 at approximately 1:10 p.m. Two suspects approached a food delivery provider and implied they had a gun, however no weapon was displayed or observed. The victim did sustain a minor injury from being punched by one of the suspects. The suspects, both described as black males wearing dark clothing, fled the scene without taking any property or money from the victim. Both were last seen heading southeast from Campus View Apartments on foot. A Columbia Police K-9 unit was used and began to track the suspects, however it was unable to locate them. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or Crimestoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

CAR FIRE DESTROYS NORTH MISSOURI MACHINE SHED

A car fire destroys a machine shed in northeast Missouri. The call came in just before 9:00 a.m. Monday in rural Clark County on CR 256. According to our sister station, KHQA, when fire crews arrived, the extended three-bay machine shed was fully engulfed in flames. Due to the intense heat from the fire, firefighters attacked the fire with two hose lines in the yard before moving closer. Once the fire was knocked down, firefighters put out hot spots, fuel fires, and other areas to access the shed. In the fire, a stock trailer, a personal vehicle, a tractor, and a pickup truck were lost in addition to four large hay bales, feed, and an assortment of tools, equipment and animal supplies. The fire did not injure the homeowner's nearby horse and did not spread to the home in the vicinity of the shed. The Clark County Fire Department, Wyaconda Fire Department, and Gorin Fire Department all responded to this call.

December 24, 2019

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Sunday at 8:23 pm, Mexico Department of Public Safety was called to the 1300 block of Falcon regarding a residential fire. The first arriving officers found moderate smoke and fire in the garage of the house. The fire was extinguished with moderate damage to the garage, and light smoke throughout the home. The fire appeared to have been started at an overloaded power strip. There were no injuries.

MSHP: HAVE A SAFE CHRISTMAS SEASON

Office parties, family gatherings, and school programs mark a busy holiday season. Listening to Christmas carols is commonplace as people work, wrap presents, and bake cookies. These are sounds everyone wants to hear during the holidays. Unfortunately, other sounds, like breaking glass, crunching metal, and calls for assistance, are heard all too often ... no matter what season it is. The Missouri State Highway Patrol asks motorists to make safety a priority this Christmas season.

Last year during the 108-hour Christmas counting period, there were 1,155 traffic crashes. In those crashes, 11 people were killed and another 421 were injured. During the 2018 Christmas holiday, troopers arrested 106 people for driving while impaired.

The 2019 Christmas holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, 2019, and ends at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, December 25, 2019.

If faced with a traffic emergency, motorists can contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. This emergency number will ring into the nearest Highway Patrol headquarters. Motorists should use this number if they are in a traffic crash, witness a crash or crime, or observe a stranded motorist in need of assistance, or other traffic emergencies.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS CLOSED STATEWIDE ON NEXT TWO WEDNESDAYS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following dates:

Wednesday, December 25, 2019, in observance of Christmas Day. Normal operations will resume on Thursday, December 26, 2019.

Wednesday, January 1, 2020, in observance of New Year’s Day. Normal operations will resume on Thursday, January 2, 2020.

December 23, 2019

MAN KILLED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was killed in an accident that occurred at 8:40am Sunday in Franklin County. 60 year old Michael LeRoney of Union, MO was on Old Highway 50 when his truck traveled across the center line and off the left side of the roadway, struck a utility pole and overturned. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK

A teen was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in St. Louis County. 18 year old Justin Johnson of St. John. MO was eastbound on I-70 when his car ran off the right side of the road, became airborne and overturned. He was taken to SSM Health DePaul Hospital with serious injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY NIGHT CRASH

A Hillsboro driver was hurt in a Sunday night crash in St. Louis County. The patrol says that 32 year old Jeremiah Brake was on the ramp from I-55 to Eastbound I-255 when his car traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck the guardrail and overturned. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of moderate injuries.

December 20, 2019

MAN KILLED IN THURSDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A Florissant man was killed in a Thursday night accident in St. Louis City. 29 year old Chaz Potter was northbound on I-55 and driving too fast for conditions when he lost control and his car ran off the right side of the road and the rear of it struck a tree. He was taken to St. Louis University Hospital where he died from his injuries a short time later.

DRIVER KILLED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY WRECK

A driver was killed in a one-vehicle wreck that occurred at 4:45pm Thursday in Franklin County. The patrol says that 50 year old Mark Winistoerfer of Villa Ridge, MO was on St. Louis Rock Road when his vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway, returned to the road and he overcorrected, causing it to overturn and eject him from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

LOUISIANA MAN INJURED IN THURSDAY AFTERNOON CRASH

A Louisiana man was injured in a Thursday afternoon crash in Pike County. 58 year old Maurice Lawson was on Pike County Road 134 when he lost control and his truck ran off the right side of the road and struck a utility pole. He was transported by ambulance to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

December 19, 2019

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Wednesday at approximately 2:05PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 100 block of W Monroe in reference to vehicle striking a person. Responding personnel learned that Rick Pratt, age 53 of Mexico, was walking between two vehicles which were both backing out of parking spaces, when one of the vehicles, a 2012 Nissan being driven by Melanie Helling, age 44 of Mexico, struck him. Pratt suffered minor injuries but was not taken from the scene by ambulance.

CERES STATUE RETURNES TO THE MISSOURI CAPITOL DOME

A statue of a Roman goddess that stood on the dome of the Missouri State Capitol for 94 years has returned to its perch. The statue of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, was lifted to the top of the Capitol dome Tuesday. The 10-foot, 1,407-pound statue was taken down last year and structural and cosmetic repairs after years of wear and lightning strikes.
Last week, state Rep. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, asked Gov. Mike Parson to stop the statue's return, saying Ceres was a "false god" that should not be on the state Capitol.

MISSOURI HIGHWAY PATROL POSTS SAFETY REMINDERS FOR HOLIDAY SEASON

As the celebration of a new year gets closer, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to stay safe during the holiday season.

According to a release from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, during last year’s 102-hour New Year’s holiday counting period, 11 people died and 447 people were injured in 1,301 traffic crashes. Thus, a person was killed or injured every 13.4 minutes during that time frame.
The release also says:

“Many Missourians will plan special events to welcome 2020. Everyone knows a successful event includes planning, and the most important details should focus on the safety of every guest. As you drive to your New Year’s celebration, remember to buckle up and make sure all your passengers do the same. Remember that you are transporting special cargo, so pay attention and obey all traffic laws. Be a courteous driver: When in doubt, yield the right-of-way. Be sure to use your turn signal to communicate your intentions. The posted speed limit reflects the roadway's classification and is not a suggestion! There’s no reason to speed—the party starts after you arrive safely. Driving is a responsibility you should take seriously.
The 2020 New Year’s 30-hour holiday counting period is from 6 p.m. Tuesday, December 31, 2019, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, January 1, 2020.
If your plans include alcohol, remember that nothing ruins a party like a DWI arrest or a drinking-related traffic crash on your way home. If you’re driving, you should be the designated driver. Otherwise, make sure your group has one before you get to the party. The roadway is no place for a driver who has been drinking. If you cause a traffic crash, your New Year might begin with being arrested, facing legal fees and medical bills, and perhaps jail time! You could lose your license and will have to face your family and friends. If you kill or injure someone, you’ll pay the price for the rest of your life. No one wants to begin 2020 in jail. Be smart! Designate a sober driver utilize a ride share service or taxi.
Before you travel, check road conditions by calling 1-888-275-6636. Allow extra time during inclement weather or consider staying home. Remember: Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on.”

December 18, 2019

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MORGAN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Barnett woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 9:20pm Tuesday in Morgan County. 27 year old Laura Harnden was on Highway 52 when her vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree. She was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

MAN SERIOUSLY HURT IN TUESDAY NIGHT WRECK

An Elsberry man was seriously hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Tuesday night in Lincoln County. 29 year old Louis Houston was on Route W when his truck ran off the left side of the road and struck a tree. He was taken to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.

THREE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN LINCOLN COUNTY CRASH

Three Foley residents were seriously injured in a Tuesday afternoon crash in Lincoln County. The patrol says that 35 year old Nicole Bickell was on Route W when her car crossed the center line and was struck in the passenger side by a Jeep Liberty driven by 34 year old Jeremy Whitman. Both drivers were taken to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles with serious injuries, while a passenger in her car a 14 year old girl was taken to St. Louis Children’s Hospital with serious injuries.

December 17, 2019

CULVERT REPLACEMENT WILL TEMPORARILY CLOSE MONTGOMERY COUNTY ROUTE J

Weather permitting, Dec. 18, MoDOT will close Montgomery County Route J from North Turkey Ridge Road to Montgomery County Route N north of Mineola, for a culvert replacement. The work will be completed between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. that day. Motorists will need to use alternate routes during these times. Again, this work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

From Sunday, December 15 through the early morning hours of Monday, December 16 as winter weather moved through mid-Missouri, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to 13 incidents of vehicle slide-offs, stranded motorists, and crashes. There were no injuries during any of these incidents.

Additionally, on the 15^th at approximately 11:51AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to a crash on E. Liberty (US Highway 54) near Littleby Rd. Arriving personnel found that a 2008 Toyota, being driven eastbound by Nicholas Andrew, age 36 of Jefferson City, crossed the centerline and collided with a 2015 Buick that was being driven westbound by Alice Doerge, age 58 of Mexico. Extrication equipment was used to safely remove Doerge and the other occupants of the Buick. Audrain Ambulance District transported Andrew and the other occupant of the Toyota and Doerge and the other two occupants of the Buick to University Hospital for treatment of their injuries. None of the injuries appeared life threatening on scene and personnel were on scene for about one hour.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE ARMED ROBBERY AT STEAK N’ SHAKE

Columbia Police were dispatched to a report of an armed robbery at Steak ‘n Shake, 1912 W. Worley Street, on Dec. 15, at approximately 5:50 p.m. Two suspects entered the store, sat down and ate a meal. After finishing their meal, the male suspect displayed a handgun at the register while demanding money. The suspects left with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The two suspects left the store in a vehicle, heading westbound from the store, towards N. Stadium Blvd., in what was described as a dark Jeep SUV. One suspect is described as a white male, in his 30’s, approximately 300 pounds, approximately 5’6" with black hair and a goatee. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black jacket and a grey shirt. The other suspect is described as a white female, in her 30’s, approximately 5’8", with dark red hair and black eyeglasses. At the time of the incident, she was described as wearing red leggings, black boots and a dark brown jacket.
There is no further information to provide at this time, as this is an active investigation.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

December 16, 2019

WINTER WEATHER COULD CAUSE MORE COMMUTE ISSUES MONDAY

Winter weather conditions will continue through Sunday night, and a second round of mixed precipitation is expected to spread across much of Missouri early Monday morning and continue throughout the day. The Missouri Department of Transportation is recommending that people delay their Monday morning commute or stay home if possible. This second wave has the potential to produce more snow, ice and freezing rain. There is also a possibility of refreezing Monday afternoon.

MoDOT crews are treating roads and bridges and will remain on duty until the winter weather is finished and the roads are clear. To check current road conditions, please go to MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at traveler.modot.org. The map is also available as a free app for Apple and Android devices.

Here are some safe driving tips if you must travel during inclement weather:

Give yourself extra time to reach your destination
Slow down and leave plenty of space between your vehicle and others
Remember to stay at least six car lengths back from snowplows and equipment – plowed snow can create a cloud that can blind drivers following too closely
If your wipers are on, keep your headlights on – it’s the law
Please wear your safety belt and don’t drive distracted – Buckle Up Phone Down

MoDOT also provides road condition information through its Customer Service Center. Call 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636) to speak with a customer service representative 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

WOMAN INJURED IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY WRECK

A Ballwin woman was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Montgomery County. 43 year old Stephanie Gray was westbound on I-70 when she lost control and her truck ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned. She was taken to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

TEEN KILLED IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON ACCIDENT

A teen was killed in an accident that occurred at 12:10pm Sunday in Callaway County. The patrol says that 18 year old Nathan Clingman of Steedman, MO was on MO 94 when his vehicle slid off the south side of the roadway and overturned, partially ejecting him and then it came to rest on its top. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Weekend Report- December 14-15, 2019

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY FRIDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 12:40am Friday in St. Charles County. The patrol says that 73 year old James Ambrose of Defiance, MO was on Highway 94 when his car crossed the center line and traveled off the left side of the roadway, crossed two driveways, struck the ground, an embankment, became airborne, struck several trees and came to rest in a ditch. He was taken to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis with serious injuries.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING WRECK

A St. Louis driver was seriously injured in a one-vehicle wreck early Saturday morning in St. Louis City. 23 year old Algie Williams IV was eastbound on I-44 when his car struck the left concrete median barrier, crossed over the lanes and hit a retaining wall on the right. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

MAN HURT IN JEFFERSON COUNTY CRASH

A Fenton man was hurt in an early Sunday morning crash in Jefferson County. 27 year old Dustin Hudson was on Highway 141 when his vehicle ran off the left side of the road, struck a traffic signal post and overturned. He was taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment of minor injuries.

December 13, 2019

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Tuesday at approximately 11:55AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the area of Huntingfield Rd. and Teal Lake Rd. when alert citizens noticed a vehicle in a creek with the driver still inside. Responding personnel learned that Edna Willis, age 85 of Mexico, was driving her 2015 Ford southbound on Huntingfield Rd. when she drove off the west side of the roadway, through some brush, and into the creek. Staff from Audrain Ambulance District and MPSD removed Willis and she was transported to SSM Health / St. Mary’s Hospital-Audrain where she was treated and discharged.

On Tuesday at approximately 12:49PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 700 block of N Washington in reference to a disturbance involving a gun being fired. Responding personnel learned that the boyfriend of a resident in that area had arrived and the two began arguing. During the argument, the boyfriend fired a gun one time, and the two left the scene. Officers spoke with both subjects on the phone as well as some of the woman’s family, and the investigation is continuing to determine appropriate charges. There were no injuries or property damage during the incident.

WREATH ACROSS AMERICA: MISSOURIANS STEP UP TO HONOR FALLEN VETS

Missouri veterans, military families, community leaders and other volunteers will be part of a national event Saturday (12/14) honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the country. Wreaths will be placed at veterans' graves in 11 Missouri cemeteries as part of the annual "Wreaths Across America" event.

During the busy holiday season, hundreds of Missourians will pause to remember fallen veterans as part of a national event. On "Wreaths Across America Day" this Saturday, volunteers in all 50 states will place wreaths on veterans’ headstones at more than 16-hundred locations. Eleven ceremonies are planned in Missouri, including at Higginsville Veterans Cemetery. David Meyer with the American Legion Riders 258 is organizing the event, which he says brings joy to veterans’ families, who sometimes feel their loved ones' sacrifices have been forgotten.

Wreaths Across America started in the early 1990s, with five-thousand wreaths placed at Arlington National Cemetery. In 2018, nearly one-point-eight million wreaths were placed, each with the name of a veteran spoken aloud.

December 12, 2019

MEN INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY IN WEDNESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

Two men were injured, one seriously in an accident that occurred at 8:55am Wednesday in Jefferson County. The patrol says that 34 year old Jasson McCormick of St. Louis became distracted as he spilled his coffee, causing his vehicle to veer onto a concrete island on MO 30 and struck a sign, a light pole, a stop light and a crash attenuator post. He suffered moderate injuries, while his passenger 20 year old Dylan Murray of Valle Mines, MO sustained serious injuries. Both were taken to Mercy Hospital South for treatment.

TWO HURT IN EARLY THURSDAY MORNING WRECK

Two men were hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Thursday morning in Cooper County. 34 year old Joey Hampton of Jefferson City was on Country Club Drive and driving around a curve when his Chevy Suburban traveled off the right side of the road, struck a concrete wall and overturned. Both the driver and his passenger 28 year old Isaiah Laws of Macks Creek were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment of moderate injuries.

TEEN HURT IN FRANKLIN COUNTY CRASH

An unidentified teen was hurt in a Wednesday morning crash in Franklin County. The report states that the crash occurred as the teen was on Route AJ when they swerved to avoid a deer in the roadway, causing their truck to travel off the left side of the road and strike an embankment. The teen was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for treatment of minor injuries.

December 11, 2019

COLUMBIA AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING ARMED ROBBERY THAT OCCURRED MONDAY NIGHT

Columbia Police Department officers were dispatched to a report of an armed robber at Xpress Liquor & Smokes at 2101 Corona Road, on Monday, Dec. 9, at approximately 5:10 p.m. One suspect, described as possibly a white male wearing a camouflage jacket with dark pants and covering his face, entered the store and displayed a handgun. He then left the store on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash. There were no injuries reported. Columbia Police also offered thanks to the Boone County Sheriff’s Department for their assistance in this case. The investigation continues

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE HOMICIDE AT WELCOME INN

Columbia Police on patrol in the area of the Welcome Inn located at 1612 N. Providence Road and observed a running vehicle in the parking lot Monday night at approximately 11:50 p.m. The officer investigating found an unresponsive male inside the vehicle with an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was pronounced dead by medical personnel on the scene. The victim has been identified as Marceino Carlous Moore, age 36, of Columbia. The investigation is continuing and anyone with additional information is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

TIS THE SEASON … FOR STRUCTURE FIRES THAT IS

Monday afternoon Columbia firemen were dispatched to a residential structure fire shortly after 2:30 pm at Day Flower Court. Upon entering the two-story home they encountered smoke and located a fire in a hallway that was quickly extinguished. The cause was an electrical failure of a battery operated Christmas tree. Damage is estimated at $2,000. Earlier in the day, Firemen were dispatched to a residential structure fire at 2712 Burrwood Drive at 1:52pm where heavy smoke and fire was coming from a window on the front of the residence. The fire was brought under control in approximately fifteen minutes. The fire originated in a closet in a bedroom. The cause is undetermined but investigators say they cannot rule out batteries from an electric scooter. Damage is estimated at $80,000. A housekeeper was home at the time of the event but exited safely. Unfortunately, a dog was found deceased. Fire fighters normally see a larger volume of calls around the holidays.

December 10, 2019

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A St. Louis woman was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at around 12:35am Tuesday in St. Louis County. 32 year old Tamara Gordon was eastbound on I-70 when her car traveled off the left side of the roadway, struck the concrete median barrier and overturned. She was taken to Barnes-Jewish Hospital with serious injuries.

BOONE COUNTY TO TRANSFER OWNERSHIP OF FAIRGROUNDS TO CITY OF COLUMBIA

Officials from Boone County and the City of Columbia announced this past Thursday that they have reached an agreement to transfer ownership of the Boone County Fairgrounds from Boone County to the City of Columbia. A Memorandum of Understanding must now be approved by the Boone County Commission and the Columbia City Council. Highlights of the Memorandum of Understanding include:

-Transfer of 135.9 acres from the County to the City via a special warranty deed as no cash will be exchanged between the two parties. As part of the agreement, the City of Columbia agrees to convert the property into a recreation complex that will benefit all of the residents of Boone County. Park planning staff will solicit public input for the final design, but the new park could fulfill existing needs including six synthetic multi-sport turf fields, an 8-lane track and field area, four baseball/softball diamonds, two picnic shelters, an inclusive playground for children and adults of all abilities and a 29-acre agricultural park that could become the permanent home of the annual Boone County Fair. The City will also be responsible for the maintenance of the MKT Trail currently being maintained by the County and the City will honor existing leases with Veterans United Home Loans and United Parcel Service. Boone County will retain ownership of the separate 53.6-acre tract that fronts the northbound lanes of Highway 63 across from the existing fairgrounds. Boone County first purchased the fairgrounds from the Boone County Agricultural and Mechanical Society back in 1999.

NEW CEO NAMED AT AREA HOSPITAL

Moberly Regional Medical Center will have a new Chief Executive Officer as of January 6^th when Brent Parsons officially takes over. Parson’s comes to Moberly from Bluffton Regional Medical Center in Bluffton, IN and served as the SEC at that hospital since then. Parsons earned a bachelor’s of business administration, with an emphasis in finance, at Brigham Young University. He earned an MHA from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities School of Public Health. The current CEO of Moberly Regional Medical Center Ranee Brayton, will be returning to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville on a full-time basis.

December 9, 2019

MONTGOMERY COUNTY CRASH INVOLVES SEVERAL AREA RESIDENTS

The patrol reports a multi vehicle crash around 11:50 Saturday morning in Montgomery County involved several residents. The wreck happened on MO 19 at MO 94 when 46 year old Jon F. Wolters of Jeff City was eastbound on MO 94, crossing MO 19 and pulled into the path of 42 year old Kelly L. Flake of Jonesburg and when her auto crashed into the passenger side of the Wolters pickup causing it to overturn and strike a 3^rd vehicle driven by 59 year old Crystal L. Ray of Owensville. Ray and a passenger in her vehicle, 63 year old Sharon Ebker of Owensville were both transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington with injuries. No other injuries were reported.

COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE FATAL VEHICLE/PEDISTRIAN ACCIDENT

That accident occurred Friday at 6:54 PM IN THE 100 BLOCK OF South College Avenue by a southbound car struck 21 year old Logan M. Warnecke of Columbia resulting in fatal injuries. The driver of the car, 21 year old Kathrine Madigan of Columbia was not injured. According to the report, the pedestrian was jogging and ran across College Avenue. He was transported to University Hospital and later died from his injuries. No arrests were made in connection with this crash, but the investigation continues.

BOONVILLE MAN TAKEN TO HOSPITAL AFTER VEHICLE STRIKES TREE

A Boonville man, 36 year old Kevin C. Wade was transported to a Columbia hospital after his vehicle traveled off Howard County highway 240 and struck a tree, approximately a half a mile south of County Road 412 at 6:15 Saturday night. The patrol said Wade was transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia. Assistance was provided on scene by the Howard County Sheriff’s Department.

Weekend Report- December 7-8, 2019

MAN KILLED IN FRANKLIN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A man was killed in an accident that occurred at 3:20pm Saturday in Franklin County. 36 year old Joshua Duncan of Lonedell, MO was on Maupin Road when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned, ejecting him from it before striking a tree. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

WOMAN HURT IN SATURDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Cape Girardeau woman was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck Saturday afternoon in Warren County. 50 year old Janice Aarns was westbound on I-70 when her freightliner ran off the left side of the road, she overcorrected and it overturned. She was taken to St. Joseph West Hospital in Lake St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

TWO INJURED IN AUDRAIN COUNTY CRASH

Two Mexico residents were injured in a Friday night crash in Audrain County. The patrol says that 18 year old Dontavis Aaron was on Route FF when his car traveled off the left side of the road, struck a ditch which ejected his passenger 21 year old Tamijah Williams before hitting a fence and becoming fully engulfed in flames. Both were transported by ambulance to St. Mary’s Hospital in Mexico for treatment of minor to moderate injuries respectively.

December 6, 2019

TEEN KILLED IN EARLY FRIDAY MORNING ACCIDENT

A Hallsville teen was killed in an accident that occurred just before 2am Friday in Boone County. The patrol says that 17 year old Hayden Holt was on Providence Road when his car traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a utility pole and overturned. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

DRIVER INJURED IN JEFFERSON COUNTY WRECK

A Fort Leonard Wood driver was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Thursday morning in Jefferson County. 18 year old Sergio Carillo was on Hillsboro House Springs Road when he failed to negotiate a curve, he overcorrected, causing his car to run off the left side of the road and strike a tree. He was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

MISSOURI BROADBAND GRANT PROGRAM APPLICATION PERIOD NOW OPEN

On Thursday the Department of Economic Development announced the start of the broadband grant program’s application period, which will allow submissions through January 7, 2020, at 4:00 p.m. CST.

Projects will be prioritized that bring access to unserved areas of the state. Additional criteria include meeting or exceeding the state’s minimum definition of high-speed internet, the applicant’s share of total project costs, economic and community benefit, and adoption strategies. Applicants will be posted on the Broadband Grant webpage and the challenge process will begin on January 10.

The goal of the broadband grant program is to bring high speed internet to Missourians across the state and was created by the Missouri General Assembly in 2018 and funded during the 2019 legislative session. The grant program matches up to 50 percent of the construction costs to expand broadband to unserved and underserved areas of the state.

December 5, 2019

SEARCH FOR MISSING COLUMBIA WOMAN CONTINUES WEDNESDAY

The search for a missing Chinese woman in a river in central Missouri has been called off until Wednesday.

Divers searched throughout the day Tuesday for Mengqi Ji Elledge, of Columbia, in the Lamine River in Cooper County. Divers also searched the river last week but didn't find Elledge, who has been missing since Oct. 8.

The Columbia Missourian reports after the search was called off Tuesday that police spokesman Jeff Pitts declined to say if any progress was made. Police have not said what evidence prompted them to search the river.

Police have identified her husband, Joseph Elledge, as a suspect but he isn't charged in her disappearance. He is jailed on $500,000 bond on charges of child endangerment and abuse. The couple has a 1-year-old daughter.

CHANGES TO TROOP F DRIVER EXAMINATION STATION TESTING SCHEDULES

Captain Corey J. Schoeneberg, commanding officer of Troop F, Jefferson City, announces a change to the testing schedule for the California, Versailles, Linn, and Mexico driver examination stations. The respective changes are as follows:

California Driver Examination Station

Effective December 6, 2019, the testing hours will change to the following:

Written Testing: 9 a.m. to 11:50 a.m. & 1 p.m. to 4:05 p.m.

Driving Skills Testing: 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. & 1 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Motorcycle Skills Testing: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Closed for lunch: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Versailles and Linn Driver Examination Stations

Effective January 1, 2020, testing dates will change to the following;

Linn DE Station ― First and third Tuesday of each month

Versailles DE Station ― Second and fourth Tuesday of each month

(No changes to testing times.)

Mexico Driver Examination Station

Friday, December 6, and Friday, December 13, the testing times will be as follows;

Written Testing: 9:30 a.m. to 11:50 a.m. & 1 p.m. to 3:50 p.m.

Driving Skills Testing: 9:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. & 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Motorcycle Skills Testing: 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Closed for lunch: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

(This change is temporary; we return to normal operating hours on Friday, December 20.)

MDC REPORTS NOVEMBER FIREARMS DEER HARVEST ENDS WITH 178.936

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows that deer hunters in Missouri harvested 178,936 deer during the November portion of fall firearms deer season, Nov. 16- 26. Of the 178,936 deer harvested, 91,420 were antlered bucks, 17,237 were button bucks, and 70,279 were does.

Top harvest counties were Franklin with 4,008 deer checked, Texas with 3,734, and Callaway with 3,369.

Last year hunters checked 200,738 deer during the 2018 November portion of firearms deer season with 103,582 being antlered bucks, 20,040 being button bucks, and 77,116 being does.

For current ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season, county, and type of deer, visit the MDC website at extra.mdc.mo.gov/widgets/harvest_table/

MDC reported six firearms-related hunting incidents during the November portion of the firearms deer season with four being self-inflicted, one non-fatal incident involving a shooter and victim, and one fatal incident involving a shooter and victim.

December 4, 2019

PUBLIC ASSISTANCE NEEDED TO IDENTIFY SUSPECT OF COLUMBIA DISTURBANCE

Columbia Police is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect of a disturbance with a weapon at We B Smokin, 2716 Paris Road, on Dec. 2, at approximately 1:00 p.m. The suspect entered the store yelling at the employee while damaging a countertop coin-operated machine with a large hammer. The suspect left the business and was last seen running southbound with an undisclosed amount of money. There were no injuries reported during the incident.

The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 5 foot 10 inches to 6 foot tall with a slender build. At the time of the incident, the suspect was wearing blue jeans, a dark jacket, a blue ball hat, a dark face mask, and gray gloves. There is no further information to provide as this is still an active investigation.

Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

PATROL TO PARTICIPATE IN PROJECT BLUE LIGHT

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces the Missouri State Highway Patrol will again join members of Concerns of Police Survivors in paying tribute to fallen officers and showing support for law enforcement by participating in Project Blue Light.

Thirty-one members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol have given their lives in fulfillment of the Patrol’s mission of providing service and protection to Missouri’s citizens. In honor of those 31 troopers and the more than 600 other law enforcement officers in Missouri who have made the ultimate sacrifice while performing their duties, all troops and division offices will display blue lights during the 2019 holiday season. The display period will be from Monday, December 2, 2019, through Thursday, January 2, 2020.

“It’s important to honor those law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, and those who continue to serve," said Colonel Olson. “Project Blue Light is a way we can show our gratitude for past and present officers from all agencies across Missouri.”

December 3, 2019

HIGHWAY PATROL RELEASES PRELIMINARY THANKSGIVING TRAFFIC INFORMATION

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has released preliminary Thanksgiving Holiday traffic statistics for 2019.
The Patrol reports nine people died in traffic crashes during this year’s holiday counting period, from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 27, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 1.
The Highway Patrol investigated the following:

Crashes: 404

Injuries: 166

Fatalities: 7

DWI: 94

Drug Arrests: 63

During the 2018 Thanksgiving holiday counting period, troopers investigated 543 traffic crashes, which included 11 fatalities and 140 injuries. Statewide, 13 people died and 498 people were injured in 1,640 traffic crashes over last year’s Thanksgiving holiday. Troopers arrested 86 people for driving while intoxicated and made 67 drug arrests during the 2018 Thanksgiving holiday counting period.

Of the seven traffic crash fatalities troopers investigated, five fatalities occurred in the Troop C, St. Louis area, one fatality occurred in the Troop B, Macon, Mo., area, and one fatality occurred in the Troop D, Springfield, Mo., area.

One person died in a traffic crash on November 28, 2019.

Michael J. Scarborough, 54, of Catawissa, Mo., died when the vehicle he was driving began to spin on wet pavement as it traveled up an incline. The vehicle spun clockwise and traveled off the right side of the road and went down an embankment before striking a tree. The crash occurred on Missouri Highway 21 north of Castle Ranch Road in Jefferson County. Valley Ambulance EMS personnel pronounced Scarborough dead at the scene. Scarborough was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

Three people died in traffic crashes on November 29, 2019.

Robyn P. Schupp, 54, of Marthasville, Mo., and Barb A. Boeshansz, 63, of Obetz, Ohio, died when their vehicle skidded across the center line and impacted a second vehicle. Schupp was driving too fast for conditions. The crash occurred on Missouri Route D at Lake 27 on the August A. Busch Wildlife Conservation Area in St. Charles County. The second vehicle came to rest in a ditch; that driver sustained serious injuries in the crash. Dr. Brian Ullery pronounced Schupp deceased at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. Dr. J. Mahlick pronounced Boeshansz deceased at Progress West Hospital in O’Fallon, MO. All three people were wearing their seat belts at the time of the crash.

Paul D. Scaglione, 88, of Dittmer, Mo., died when another vehicle traveled across the center line and struck the vehicle he was driving. The crash occurred on Missouri Route B north of Janssen's Lake Drive in Jefferson County. A passenger in Scaglione's vehicle sustained serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle that struck the Scaglione vehicle sustained serious injuries. Big River Ambulance personnel pronounced Scaglione deceased at the scene. Scaglione and his passenger were wearing their seat belts. The driver of the other vehicle was not wearing a seat belt.

Three drownings occurred on November 30, 2019.

Two juvenile males died when the vehicle in which they were passengers traveled into a flooded crossing. The vehicle was swept away with all occupants entering the water. The driver sustained moderate injuries; a third juvenile occupant sustained serious injuries. The third juvenile passenger was in a child restraint. It is unknown if the two fatalities and the driver were using safety devices. The incident occurred on County Road 356 southeast of Patton, Mo., at Little White Water Creek Crossing in Bollinger County. Bollinger County Coroner Charles Hutchings pronounced both juvenile males deceased at the scene.

Todd P. Dean, 48, of Mandeville, La., died when he drove his vehicle into a flooded crossing and the vehicle was swept downstream. The incident occurred on County Road 234 one mile from Sedgewickville, Mo., in Bollinger County. Bollinger County Coroner Charles Hutchings pronounced Dean deceased at the scene. Dean was wearing a seat belt.

There were no boating crashes, zero boating fatalities, and no boating while intoxicated arrests reported during the 2019 Thanksgiving holiday counting period.

December 2, 2019

BRIDGE WORK PLANNED FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY ROUTE E AT BEAR CREEK

Weather permitting, Dec. 2-5 and Dec. 9-12, MoDOT will have traffic reduced to one lane on Montgomery County Route E from 0.25 mile north to 0.25 mile south of Bear Creek Bridge, located north of Montgomery Route JJ, for bridge work. The work will be completed between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. each day. There will be a 10 ft. width restriction in place. Again, this work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

STRONG WINDS CAUSE DAMAGE IN MEXICO

Extremely strong winds moved through the Mexico area during the early morning hours of Wednesday, 11/27/19. MPSD responded to or located numerous incidents of items in the roadway such as branches, trash cans, or outdoor household items. The globe of a street light and a street sign had become detached and were located in the roadway around the City Square. Most items located were removed from the roadway by officers. A power line was pulled from a pole in the 400 block of S Clark and was hanging low. Ameren was called to address the issue. Another line was damaged from a fallen limb, causing a short power outage in the south part of Mexico. Ameren responded to resolve that issue as well. As of this time there are no confirmed reports of damaged personal property and there have been no injuries from the event.

FIRE REPORT IN MEXICO

On Wednesday, November 27 at approximately 12:44 AM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1200 block of N Clark in reference to a fire. Responding personnel learned that a caretaker of a property in that block had been burning leaves and yard waste earlier and thought the fire was extinguished. As winds increased, the fire rekindled and began blowing across the property. The fire was contained and extinguished with no other property being damaged. There were no injuries from the incident.

November 27, 2019

MEXICO PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT NEWS

On Monday at approximately 7:51 PM, the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the 1800 block of Country Place Ct in reference to a possible fire in the wall of a bedroom. Responding personnel found that an electrical outlet failed, causing it to arc and melt, scorching some of the wall and insulation material around the outlet box. The outlet was removed from the wall and the electrical circuit for the outlet was shut down until an electrician could make further repairs. There was a lamp plugged into the outlet at the time. There were no injuries from the incident.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES APPROVES MORE THAN $200,000 IN GRANTS FOR FIVE COMMUNITIES

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a total of $216,000 in Small Community Engineering Assistance Program grants to five communities to evaluate their wastewater systems. The grant offers funding to qualifying small communities to help cover engineering costs for evaluating wastewater system improvements.

Receiving grant funding are the cities of Mendon ($32,000), New Florence ($50,000), Rockaway Beach ($40,000), Seneca ($44,000) and Wheaton ($50,000). Each city will use the grants to identify improvements needed to reduce inflow and infiltration of stormwater into sewer collection pipes. Engineering reports funded through the grant will be complete within the next two years.

The department is committed to assisting Missouri communities with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Through its Financial Assistance Center, the department provides funding opportunities for communities with water quality, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure needs.

MISSOURI HIGHWAY PATROL ANNOUNCES NEW AMBER ALERT SYSTEM

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has announced the Patrol has launched an upgraded Missouri AMBER Alert system that streamlines the process to get alerts to the public faster. The new system includes wireless emergency alerts, automated social media alerts, and a public website, www.moalerts.mo.gov, which provides the latest information on AMBER Alerts active in Missouri at any time.
The new Patrol alert system directly utilizes FEMA's Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) to deliver AMBER Alert messages to cellular carriers, eliminating a step in the previous system, which first delivered alert messages to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children for distribution.
Each AMBER Alert will include photos and descriptions of the missing child and suspect, if available. The new system’s automatic alert updates are designed to reduce the possibility that outdated information will continue to be shared on social media. This new system also will automatically update the Patrol's Facebook and GHQ Twitter accounts.
The Mo-Alerts website allows members of the media and public to subscribe to emailed AMBER Alerts. Subscribers receive immediate notification any time details contained within an active AMBER Alert are updated. Anyone interested may subscribe to Mo-Alerts by going to www.moalerts.mo.gov, selecting “Subscribe to Mo-Alerts” on the left side of the webpage, entering their email address, and clicking “Subscribe.” Subscribers will receive a verification email and must click on the link provided to complete the process.

November 26, 2019

MISSOURI KILLING SUSPECT ARRESTED IN ARIZONA

Authorities say a suspect in a Missouri killing has been arrested in Arizona more than 10 months after he was charged.
The Boone County, Missouri, Sheriff's Department said in a news release that 60-year-old Garland Wisley was taken into custody Saturday in San Luis, Arizona, as he was trying to make his way back from Mexico. He is awaiting extradition to Missouri, where he is charged with second degree murder and armed criminal action in the Jan. 13 death of 38-year-old John Albers. Charging documents say that witnesses reported Wisley and Albers were arguing over a handgun before the shooting.
Wisley has a long criminal record. At the time of the shooting, he was being sought on a failure to appear warrant for sentencing on drug possession and trespassing charges.

MINOR INJURIES IN HIGHWAY 54 BYPASS CRASH

On Friday, November 22 at approximately 12:14 PM the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to the US Highway 54 bypass, approximately one mile north of the S. Clark exit, in reference to a crash. Responding personnel found that a 2015 Ford being driven by Charles G Rose, Jr. age 60 of Middletown, was proceeding eastbound, when the vehicle crossed the centerline. The Ford struck the rear tires of trailer being pulled westbound by a Peterbilt semi driven by Ethan Looney, age 26 of Arkansas. The Ford then continued into the westbound lane and struck a 2019 Dodge pickup-truck being driven westbound by Diamond A Zaferis, age 62, of Arizona. The Ford had two children inside and the Dodge had three other occupants. There were only minor injuries reported and no one was transported for medical attention. Traffic on the bypass was slowed to one lane until about 1:15 PM.

COLUMBIA TEEN INJURED AFTER BEING STRUCK ON BIKE

A Columbia teenager is injured after being struck by an SUV while on his bicycle Sunday morning. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 14 year old Columbia resident whose name will not be released was riding his bicycle at the intersection of Route VV and Mauller Road at 9:11 a.m. when he failed to yield to an oncoming vehicle. A vehicle driven by 54 year old Robert Livesay of Missoula, Montana struck the teenager in the intersection. The teen was taken by ambulance to University Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.

November 25, 2019

COLUMBIA POLICE RESPOND TO TWO WEEKEND SHOTS FIRED REPORTS

Columbia Police officers responded to the 2500 block of Shepard Blvd. to a report of shots fired on Saturday at approximately 11:45 p.m.
Officers arrived and immediately began canvassing the area and located evidence of gunshots being fired. Later an 18-year-old male arrived at a local emergency room for treatment of a non-life threatening gunshot wound to an arm.
There is no suspect description or any further information to provide at this time, as this is an ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or Crimestoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

Columbia Police officers responded to the 1500 block of Riva Ridge Court to a report of shots fired on Thursday at approximately 9:20 p.m. Officers arrived and immediately began canvassing the area for evidence. Officers located shell casings along with damage to a residence in the 1500 block of Riva Ridge Road as a result of gunshots, but no injuries were reported. There is no suspect description or any further information to provide at this time, as this is an ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or Crimestoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

INVESTIGATORS IDENTIFY BODIES AS MISSING WISCONSIN BROTHERS

Investigators in Missouri have now positively identified human remains as those of two Wisconsin brothers who went missing after visiting a Missouri farm in July 2019.
The Caldwell County Sheriff's Office announced Friday afternoon that the remains of Nicholas Diemel were recovered on a farm outside Braymer, Missouri.
Justin Diemel's remains were recovered November 15, 2019, in a livestock trailer in Lincoln County, Nebraska.
A Nebraska rancher reported he found human remains inside the trailer he had bought in Missouri. The rancher told deputies he found the remains inside a plastic tub that was filled with dirt.
Sheriff Jerry Galloway said dental records confirmed both identifications.
The Missouri farmer accused of killing the two brothers from Wisconsin is Garland "Joey" Nelson, 25, of Braymer, Missouri.
Nelson is charged with two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of abandonment of a corpse, two counts of tampering with physical evidence, two counts of armed criminal action, tampering with a motor vehicle and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Investigators said Nelson fatally shot the Diemels on his farm outside Braymer in July. His neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots on the day the two were killed.
Nelson is being held without bond.

Weekend Report- November 23-24, 2019

ST. LOUIS MAN KILLED IN SATURDAY NIGHT ACCIDENT

A St. Louis man was killed in an accident that occurred at 11:55pm Saturday in St. Louis County. The patrol says that 34 year old Oney Hellems was lying in the roadway on Evergreen Boulevard when he was struck and killed by a car driven by 32 year old Kendra Jenkins of St. Louis. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY SATURDAY MORNING CRASH

A Fayette driver was hurt in an early Saturday morning crash in Howard County. 22 year old Sndrew Simmons was on Highway 240 when he attempted to avoid a deer, causing his car to travel off the right side of the road into a ditch. He refused medical treatment for minor injuries.

MAN INJURED IN ST. CHARLES COUNTY WRECK

A man was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Thursday night in St. Charles County. 38 year old Charles Kavin Jr. of Cottleville, MO was eastbound on I-64 and driving too fast for the wet road conditions when his car slid off the left side of the roadway and struck the median wall. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis for treatment of moderate injuries.

November 22, 2019

WORK CONTINUES ON REPLACEMENT OF LOUTRE RIVER BRIDGE ON I-70

Work continues on the replacement of the Loutre River Bridge on westbound Interstate 70. “The first stages of construction are now complete including rebuilding the right shoulder along with the first section of the new bridge which is now carrying traffic” said Missouri Department of Transportation Resident Engineer Rick Domzalski. “With this milestone reached, crews will now be able to work behind the temporary traffic barrier during daylight hours to demolish the old bridge and continue constructing the remainder of the new bridge” added Domzalski.

While two lanes of traffic will still be open throughout most of the project, the speed limit will remain reduced to 60 mph, and the lanes will be 10’9”, with narrowed shoulders throughout the remainder of the project.

He explained the extra bridge width built in the median to maintain two lanes of traffic during this project will be available for any future expansion of the interstate.

The project was awarded by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission to Phillips Hardy for $5.4 million and includes replacement of the westbound bridge. The work is expected to be fully completed by August 2020.

PEDESTRIAN INJURED IN ACCIDENT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI

A pedestrian was injured after an accident on the campus of the University of Missouri Wednesday. According to the University’s Police Department, a pedestrian was taken to the hospital and a driver was ticketed after the crash occurred on University Avenue in Columbia on Wednesday night.

Columbia firefighters and MUPD responded to the 1100 block of University Avenue around 9 p.m. after a report of a motor vehicle accident. According to MUPD, the driver of the vehicle was given a ticket for failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk.

ESCAPED MISSOURI INMATE FOUND IN DELAWARE

An inmate who escaped from the same northern Missouri jail twice was captured more than 1,100 miles away.

The U.S. Marshals Service discovered Drake Kately, 27, on Tuesday in Delaware.

Kately was discovered living in a makeshift hut in the wilderness when he was detained.

Authorities say Kately escaped from the Mercer County Jail in Princeton in September 2019 after tearing a hole in the back wall of his cell with a wooden board that he somehow obtained.

The back wall of the cell was made of a heavy screen-like material. Authorities say the inmate bored a hole through that material with the board, allowing him to get into the basement of the jail and escape through the basement door.

He was being held there on multiple charges, including assault.

It was thought Kately fled to Kansas City, but investigators there learned that the fugitive was likely in Delaware.

The U.S. Marshals Service in the District of Delaware discovered Kately in a wooded area, hiding in a shack he had constructed out of leaves and a fallen tree. Kately's clothes were reportedly hanging from a tree branch.

Kately is in custody in Delaware while he waits to be transferred back to Missouri.

November 21, 2019

WOMAN’S BODY FOUND NEAR TROY, HUSBAND CHARGED.

The body found during a search near Troy, Missouri, has been positively identified as that of a St. Louis County woman who disappeared this month. St. Louis County police on Wednesday said the body of 28-year-old Jennifer Rothwell was found Monday night. Her husband, Beau Rothwell, is jailed without bond on charges of second-degree murder and evidence tampering.

Jennifer Rothwell was a chemical engineer who was reported missing Nov. 12. Her car was found abandoned near the couple's home.

A probable cause statement says Beau Rothwell was spotted Nov. 11 on video purchasing bleach, carpet cleaner and gloves. He was arrested Nov. 13 after a search of the home.

Police say Beau Rothwell provided information that helped lead authorities to his wife's body.

COLUMBIA WOMAN CHARGED WITH MANSLAUGHTER AFTER CRASH VICTIM DIES

A Columbia woman is facing manslaughter charges after the death of a man cleaning up after a bike race.

23 year old Regine McCracken of Columbia is charged with first-degree involuntary manslaughter in the death of Randall Siddens. Siddens died Monday from injuries he suffered in the May 5 crash, requiring extensive medical treatment.

McCracken was originally charged with assault and careless driving in July. Police say McCracken was using her cellphone for a video call at the time of the crash and was driving 68 mph in a 55 mph zone on Grindstone Avenue.

Investigators determined McCracken's vehicle hit a parked vehicle and two pedestrians. According to a probable cause statement one of the men was thrown nearly 130 feet.

Boone County assistant prosecutor Nicholas Komoroski filed a motion Monday to revoke McCracken's $50,000 bond. Police arrested McCracken when charges were first filed and she bonded out.

Komoroski's motion asked for a $50,000 cash-only bond and for a warrant to be issued for McCracken's arrest

November 20, 2019

NEBRASKA REMAINS COULD BE CONNECTED TO DEATH OF WISCONSIN BROTHERS

Nebraska authorities say human remains found in a stock trailer could be those of at least one of two Wisconsin brothers who prosecutors say were fatally shot by a Missouri farmer.
Lincoln County Sheriff Chief Deputy Roland Kramer said Monday that a rancher near Hershey, Nebraska, found the remains mixed with dirt in a plastic tub inside the trailer he recently purchased in Missouri.
Garland Nelson, a 25-year-old Missouri farmer, is accused of fatally shooting 35-year-old Nick Diemel and 24-year-old Justin Diemel, of Wisconsin, then burning their bodies and dumping them in a manure pile. He faces two counts of first-degree murder.
Relatives say the brothers traveled to Nelson's farm to collect on a $250,000 debt.
Kramer says Missouri authorities confirmed the remains could belong to one of the brothers.

COLUMBIA SEARCH LEADS TO PURSUIT

Columbia Police detectives from the Street Crimes Unit (SCU) with assistance from the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) served a search warrant at a residence, 4001 Oakland Gravel Road, Apt. 202 on Tuesday, Nov. 19. While conducting the search warrant, one person fled in a vehicle, which initiated a vehicle pursuit.
The pursuit began in the 4000 block of Oakland Gravel Road and ended in the vicinity of East Sir Barton Drive and Gallant Fox Drive when CPD used a spike strip to disable the vehicle. The sole occupant exited the vehicle and fled on foot. A helicopter was in the air and maintained surveillance on the fleeing suspect while officers maintained a perimeter. The suspect was located in a wooded area in the vicinity of East Sir Barton Drive and Gallant Fox Drive. He was taken into custody without any further incident.
Several schools in the area were put on "hold and secure." This prevents anyone from entering or exiting the school building. At no time was the suspect attempting to get into any school. The schools included in the "hold and secure" were Derby Ridge Elementary, Blue Ridge Elementary, Oakland Middle, Lange Middle and the Center for Early Learning-North.
Inside the residence and vehicle, officers located a total of five firearms, two of which were reported as stolen, and approximately one ounce of heroin.
The suspect, identified as Joseph Andrew Luckett Jr., 25, of Columbia, has been charged with the following: resisting arrest for a felony, two counts of tampering with physical evidence, five counts of convicted felon in possession of firearm, two counts of stealing (firearm), misdemeanor stealing, and delivery/distribution of a controlled substance.
There is no further information to release at this time.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or Crimestoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

NUMBERS FROM FIRST WEEKEND OF FIREARMS SEASON RELEASED

Now that the first weekend for deer firearms season is in the books, just how many deer were harvested around the state of Missouri? And how many of those deer were harvested from counties in northeast Missouri?
During the first weekend of deer firearms season, nearly 90,000 deer were harvested around the state, however, that is approximately 10,000 deer less than opening weekend of deer firearms season in 2018.
In northeast Missouri, Macon County saw the highest amount of harvested deer with roughly 1,000, followed by Adair and Linn Counties with almost 950 harvested deer during opening weekend.
Deer firearms season concludes on November 26; however, deer archery season opens November 27 and will last through January 15.

November 19, 2019

TROY MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN LINCOLN COUNTY ACCIDENT

A Troy man was seriously injured in an accident that occurred at 6:50am Monday in Lincoln County. The patrol says that 22 year old Justin Meyer was on Highway H when he failed to negotiate a turn, causing his vehicle to travel off the right side of the roadway, he overcorrected, causing it to overturn and return to the road and kept overturning off the left side of the roadway before ejecting the driver. He was taken to St. Joseph East Hospital in St. Charles with serious injuries.

DRIVER HURT IN EARLY TUESDAY MORNING WRECK

A St. Charles driver was hurt in a one-vehicle wreck early Tuesday morning in St. Charles County. 43 year old Jeffrey Coleman was eastbound on I-64 and driving too fast for wet road conditions when his car ran off the left side of the road and the front of it struck the concrete wall, rotated and then the rear struck the concrete wall. He was transported by ambulance to Progress West Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

GOV. PARSON ANNOUNCES WEIGHT ALLOWANCE FOR HEAVIER THAN NORMAL LOADS OF HEATING FUEL

On Monday Governor Mike Parson announced an allowance for heavier-than-normal truckloads of heating fuel such as propane, natural gas, and heating oil to travel on Missouri highways in relief of current supply issues in the central United States.

The waiver allows private and for-hire motor carriers to haul up to the specifications of the tank type being operated or 10 percent more than a commercial motor vehicle’s licensed weight on Missouri highways, whichever results in the lower weight.

The waiver remains in effect through December 20, 2019. While the waiver is in effect, participating motor carriers are limited to the following:

A loaded, gross weight no greater than 10 percent above the gross licensed weight of the commercial motor vehicle OR up to the specifications of the tank type being operated, whichever results in the lower overall loaded vehicle weight;
This allowance applies within the state of Missouri. If moving interstate, drivers must operate according to the laws of the state they’re in;
Drivers must obey posted bridge weight limits;
When crossing a bridge, the driver must restrict the vehicle speed to no more than 30 mph;
Travel under this allowance is only allowed on non-interstate highways. Those taking advantage of the weight allowance cannot operate on any portion of the interstate highway system.
All other traffic regulations remain in place.

Drivers who plan to travel under the conditions of the allowance should first consider the weight ratings of the tires on their vehicle. Regulations pertaining to vehicle parts are not waived.

November 18, 2019

CULVERT WORK CONTINUES AND WILL TEMPORARILY CLOSE MONTGOMERY COUNTY ROUTE ZZ

Weather permitting, Monday and Tuesday MoDOT will close Montgomery County Route ZZ from Montgomery County Route RA to Missouri Route 19 for culvert replacements. The work will be completed between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each day with the road reopening each evening.

Motorists will need to use alternate routes during these times.

Again, this work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.

TEEN INJURED IN SUNDAY AFTERNOON WRECK

A Hillsboro teen was injured in a one-vehicle wreck Sunday afternoon in Jefferson County. 17 year old Jayda Eggemeyer was on Old LeMay Ferry Road wh